Germany increases Border Controls
Starting Monday, 16 September, Germany will implement border controls with several neighboring countries, including France, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Belgium, and Denmark. These measures are set to last for six months as part of the government’s intensified efforts to curb irregular immigration.
The decision to reinstate these controls is part of a broader package aimed at enhancing border security and tightening immigration regulations. Among the measures is the authority to refuse entry into the country, enabling German authorities to manage migration flows more effectively.
This move follows the country’s earlier resumption of controls with Switzerland, the Czech Republic, and Poland in October 2023. The latest decision, announced by Interior Minister Nancy Faeser, reflects an expanded security strategy aimed at curbing irregular immigration across all German land borders.
“I have ordered controls at all German land borders. The start is scheduled for September 16 and the initial duration is six months,” Faeser said, emphasizing that this plan is intended to stabilize the internal situation through “concrete actions.”
Additionally, border controls that were recently established along the German-Austrian border will remain in place until at least mid-November, continuing the heightened security approach in that region.
Impact on Travel and Trade
So far, the reintroduced controls have not led to significant traffic disruptions. Travelers are advised to prepare their documents in advance to ensure a smooth process, as spot checks are likely. The government is also looking into minimizing any potential impact on freight transport by establishing green lanes for trucks. These special lanes, used effectively during the COVID-19 pandemic, aim to keep cross-border trade moving without delays.
In parallel, the German government is exploring ways to minimize disruptions to trade by considering the introduction of special green lanes for trucks. These lanes, which proved successful in streamlining cross-border freight traffic during the COVID-19 pandemic, aim to keep essential goods moving efficiently despite the reimposed border controls.
The new policies reflect Germany’s determination to balance enhanced border security with maintaining smooth economic operations, especially for cross-border trade.
In addition to the standard border controls, enhanced security measures will be implemented within a 30-kilometer zone from the borders. According to Interior Minister Nancy Faeser, the move reflects Germany’s commitment to tightening immigration controls. Federal Police Chief Dieter Koester emphasized that “we do not expect to be everywhere at the same time with the same intensity, but controls will be carried out throughout the border area.”
The package of measures also grants authorities the ability to refuse entry to individuals as part of this broader security strategy. Border controls along the German-Austrian border, which were established earlier, will remain in effect until mid-November.
Economic and Traffic Impact
While there were concerns about potential traffic disruptions, Koester assured that, for the moment, the procedures are not causing significant delays or traffic jams. Travelers can help speed up the process by having their travel documents ready, as spot checks are likely at various crossing points.
The German government is also working to mitigate the impact on cross-border trade by considering the introduction of special green lanes for trucks, which proved effective during the COVID-19 pandemic. These lanes aim to streamline freight traffic and reduce delays for essential goods.
Possible Extension and European Concerns
The current measures are set to remain in place for six months, but officials have not dismissed the chance of extending them. This decision has faced criticism from Brussels and several EU member states, with some officials voicing concern, suggesting that the move appears to be directed primarily at domestic audiences.
As Germany navigates the balance between stronger border security and preserving economic efficiency, these actions mark a shift in its immigration and border control policies while it continues to uphold its obligations within the EU framework.
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