Which Schengen countries have introduced border controls: restrictions in 2025

In 2025, Schengen countries continue to face challenges that require the restoration of border controls. These measures are aimed at improving security and managing migration flows. Find out which countries have restrictions in place

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The Schengen Area has always been a symbol of free movement for citizens, but in recent years, some countries have temporarily reinstated border controls. This decision was made in response to security threats, migration pressure and pandemic challenges. Here is a list of Schengen Area countries that will introduce or extend border controls in 2025.

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Germany

Since September 2024, Germany has reinstated border controls with Poland, the Czech Republic, Austria, France, Switzerland, Denmark, the Netherlands, Belgium and Luxembourg. The main goal is to combat illegal migration and smuggling. These measures are expected to remain in place until at least 15 September 2025.

France

France continues to carry out border checks due to increased terrorist threats and large mass events such as festivals and sporting events. The controls cover the borders with Belgium, Germany, Spain and Italy, as well as key transport hubs.

Netherlands

Since 9 December 2024, the Netherlands has tightened controls at its airports, ports and on rail routes due to an increase in the flow of migrants. These measures will remain in place until 8 June 2025, with the possibility of extension depending on the situation.

Austria

Austria is maintaining border checks at its borders with Hungary, Slovenia and Slovakia. The measures were introduced in response to active migration routes and are expected to remain in place until at least November 2025.

Italy

Italy took additional measures at its borders with France, Austria and Slovenia at the end of 2024. This is due to increased security risks and growing migration pressure. These measures will remain in place throughout 2025.

Slovenia

From December 2024, Slovenia has introduced border controls at its borders with Croatia and Hungary. The reason for this is regional instability. These measures will remain in place until 21 December 2025.

Denmark

Denmark has extended border controls, which will remain in place until at least November 2025. Controls are focused on important transport hubs, such as the Øresund Bridge and ferry terminals connecting the country with Germany and Sweden.

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Sweden

Sweden continues to maintain internal border controls for security reasons, in particular to combat transnational crime. The measures cover southern ports, airports and land crossings with Denmark and Norway, and are expected to remain in place until November 2025.

Norway

Norway maintains active border controls, particularly on ferry routes, southern borders and at airports. This is necessary to combat illegal migration and to coordinate with neighbouring countries. The controls will remain in place until the end of autumn 2025.

Bulgaria

Since March 2024, Bulgaria has been applying selective border controls at its land borders, following its accession to Schengen for air and sea travel. Restrictions at the border with Romania will remain in place until at least 30 June 2025.

Slovakia

From April to July 2025, Slovakia introduced border controls at its borders with Austria and Hungary. This is due to the prevention of the spread of foot-and-mouth disease among animals.

Poland

On July 7, 2025, Poland introduced border controls with Lithuania and Germany due to the threat of illegal migration. Checks are carried out selectively at all checkpoints – road, rail, and air.

Spain

From June 27 to July 5, 2025, temporary border controls were in place in Spain due to the IV UN International Conference on Financing for Development in Seville. Controls were reinstated at land borders with France and Portugal, as well as at airports and seaports.

Belgium

Belgium will introduce border controls this summer. According to the spokesperson for the Minister for Migration, Annelien Van Bosseyt, the controls will be carried out selectively on major motorways, bus routes, certain rail routes, and on intra-Schengen flights from countries with high migration pressure, such as Greece and Italy.

Estonia

Estonian police and border guards have stepped up patrols at the country's borders after Poland reinstated border controls. However, according to Virko Luide, head of the crisis preparedness department of the Estonian Police and Border Guard Board (RPA), Estonia does not currently plan to introduce checkpoints at the EU's internal borders.

Please note! In many Schengen countries, border guards may check for travel or car insurance when crossing the border. Not having a policy means you risk being denied entry or having to pay a fine.

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