Starting November 1, 2024, non-Schengen travellers, including holidaymakers from the UK, may face longer waiting times when entering France.
The French government has announced that internal border controls will be reinstated from November 1, 2024, through April 30, 2025, affecting all neighbouring countries.
Border Checks to Combat Security Threats
The decision to reintroduce border checks in France is aimed at bolstering internal security amid rising concerns over terrorism and irregular migration.
French authorities have emphasized that these measures are necessary to protect the country, particularly in light of recent security threats. All non-EU travellers entering France from Belgium, Spain, Luxembourg, Switzerland, Germany, or Italy will be subject to these controls.
Spot Checks Will Cause Delays
Although the border checks will primarily be spot checks and not mandatory for every individual, travel experts warn that they will still cause delays.
Paul Charles, CEO of The PC Agency, noted that travellers should expect longer wait times, particularly for those entering by car, coach, or Eurostar trains.
“These controls will add to delays and uncertainty for travellers, making it less convenient for people to visit France,” Charles said. He also raised concerns that these temporary measures could become permanent, especially if other Schengen countries decide to follow suit.
Impact on Non-Schengen Travellers
While the new border checks will affect all non-Schengen travellers, those coming from the UK, for example, may face more extended delays. Travellers using Eurostar trains or crossing the border by road are expected to experience longer queues during passport checks.
The possibility of increased scrutiny at these borders could discourage some from travelling to France during this period.
Also Read: New Border Rules in Germany: How It Affects Travel Across 9 Countries
Delayed Launch of EU’s Entry/Exit System (EES)
France’s decision to reinstate border controls coincides with the EU’s delay in launching its new Entry/Exit System (EES), which was initially scheduled to go live on November 10, 2024.
The EES would have introduced automated checks for non-EU citizens entering the Schengen Area, streamlining border procedures. However, due to technical issues and member states’ unpreparedness, the system’s launch has been postponed.
The European Union has not provided a new launch date for the EES, stating that it might be implemented gradually over time.
What Travellers Should Know
For non-Schengen travellers planning a trip to France in the upcoming months, here’s what to keep in mind:
1. Border Controls: Travellers entering France from neighbouring Schengen countries like Belgium, Spain, Luxembourg, Switzerland, Germany, and Italy will face random border checks. These spot checks aim to enhance internal security and may lead to travel disruptions.
2. Increased Wait Times: Longer waiting times are expected at border crossings, particularly at land borders and Eurostar terminals. Non-Schengen travellers should prepare for potential delays during passport checks as security measures tighten.
3. Temporary Measures: The reinstated border controls will last until April 30, 2025. However, experts caution that these measures could be extended if security concerns persist or additional risks arise.
4. Travel Tips: Plan ahead by allocating extra time for border crossings, especially if travelling by car or train. Stay updated on official announcements from French authorities regarding any changes or extensions to the border controls.
Also Read: France Proposes Stricter Schengen Visa Rules Amid Irregular Migration
Final Thoughts
While these border checks aim to address security concerns, they are likely to impact travel convenience for non-Schengen travellers. If you’re planning to visit France between November 2024 and April 2025, prepare for possible delays and ensure you have all the required documentation for smooth entry.
Follow and connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and Google News for the latest travel news and updates!