Schengen Internal Border Checks: 9 Countries Extend Controls to Mid-2026, Germany to September
- 6 days ago
- 2 min read
Published: 2026-02-18T09:30+05:30 (IST)
BY Xavio
Schengen Area countries have renewed Schengen internal border checks across multiple land, air, and sea frontiers, with fresh extensions confirmed in mid-February 2026. Nine nations — Austria, Denmark, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Slovenia, and Sweden — will maintain temporary controls through at least March to June 2026. Germany has taken a longer stance, prolonging checks at all its land borders until 15 September 2026.
These ongoing measures, justified by persistent threats from irregular migration, smuggling networks, terrorism, organized crime, and external pressures like the war in Ukraine and Middle East instability, continue to impact seamless travel within Europe's border-free zone. Travelers crossing affected borders should expect random or systematic ID verification, document inspections, and potential delays.
Latest Extensions and Scope (February 2026)
Germany: All land borders (with Austria, Belgium, Czechia, Denmark, France, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Poland, Switzerland) extended to 15 September 2026 — the longest current duration, reflecting concerns over migration flows and asylum system strain.
Austria: Land/river borders with Czech Republic, Hungary, Slovakia, Slovenia — to 15 June 2026.
Italy: Land borders with Slovenia — to 18 June 2026.
Netherlands: Land borders with Belgium/Germany + intra-Schengen air — to 8 June 2026.
France: All internal borders (land, air, sea) — to 30 April 2026 (with possible further review).
Other Countries (Denmark, Norway, Poland, Slovenia, Sweden): Varying scopes (land/sea/air) extended to May–June 2026.
These controls, in various forms since 2015, remain despite the Schengen principle of no routine internal checks. The EU's 2024 Schengen Borders Code amendments clarified rules, allowed flexibility for security/public health crises, and strengthened responses to "instrumentalized" migration by permitting reduced crossing points and enhanced surveillance.
Practical Impact for Travelers
Border officers may request passports, visas, or proof of stay compliance, leading to queues on major routes (e.g., Germany–Austria highways, Italy–Slovenia crossings). Visa-exempt nationals (including many Indian travelers) must strictly adhere to the 90 days in any 180-day period Schengen rule — checks can flag potential overstays, resulting in fines, entry denial, or future bans.
No changes to visa requirements or entry conditions — just added verification steps. Carry valid ID, return tickets, accommodation proof, and sufficient funds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do these Schengen internal border checks apply to flights within Europe?
Mostly land/sea, but some countries (e.g., Netherlands, Sweden) include intra-Schengen air travel. Always carry passport/ID.
Q: How does this affect Indian passport holders?
Visa-exempt for short stays (if eligible) — but track your 90/180-day limit carefully, as random checks may verify compliance.
Q: Why are controls still active after years?
Nations cite ongoing migration pressures, smuggling, terrorism risks, and lack of unified EU migration solutions. Temporary measures are allowed as "last resort" under Schengen rules.
Q: When could these fully end?
Subject to periodic review; new EU migration rules (phasing in 2026) may influence future decisions.
Q: Where can I find the most current list? Check the European Commission's official updates on temporary border controls.
For the latest Schengen travel rules, visa alerts, and entry tips tailored for Indian nationals, explore our dedicated Schengen Area section.
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