Germany Imposes Temporary Border Checks: 5 Key Changes for Travellers

Germany has announced plans to implement temporary border checks at all nine of its land borders to tackle irregular migration and strengthen security measures.

The decision, announced by Interior Minister Nancy Faeser, aims to curb the rising number of unauthorized entries into the country and address concerns over public safety, including threats from extremism.

Expanding Border Controls

Germany will introduce temporary border checks at its land borders with France, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Belgium, and Denmark for six months.

This move expands the existing border controls with Austria, Poland, the Czech Republic, and Switzerland, which were introduced last year. These controls will be in place for six months. They expand upon existing checks at the borders with:

• Austria (in place until November 2024)
• Poland
• The Czech Republic
• Switzerland

The checks at the last three borders will continue until December 2024. Germany plans to coordinate these measures with the affected neighboring countries.

Interior Minister’s Statement

Interior Minister Nancy Faeser announced the decision at a news conference. She emphasized that the goal is to reduce irregular migration until the EU’s new Common European Asylum System is fully operational.

“We need to strengthen controls at our national borders. These controls will also enable effective refoulement,” Faeser said.

Also Read: Germany Visa Processing Time for Skilled Workers Reduced to Just 2 Weeks

New Border Crossing Rules for Travellers

1. Increased Border Checks: Travelers crossing Germany’s land borders with France, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Belgium, Denmark, Austria, Poland, the Czech Republic, and Switzerland will face temporary border checks for six months.

2. Document Requirements: Passports, ID cards, and other travel documents may be required at borders, even within the Schengen Area. Ensure all documents are valid and accessible.

3. Possible Delays: Travelers should expect potential delays due to the increased checks. Allow extra time for border crossings, especially during peak travel periods.

4. Additional Security Screening: Enhanced security measures may include luggage checks and questioning, aiming to identify and prevent irregular migration.

5. Limited Entry for Some: Individuals suspected of irregular migration or those without proper documentation may be turned away at the border under the new rules.

Impact on International Travellers

The expanded border controls in Germany may lead to longer wait times and increased scrutiny at land borders. Travelers should expect delays and be prepared for possible document checks, even within the Schengen Area. These measures could disrupt the usual ease of movement between Germany and neighboring countries.

Focus on National Security

The temporary controls aim to:

• Reduce unauthorized entries
• Enhance public safety
• Address threats, including Islamic extremism

Germany has also developed a framework to turn away more migrants directly at the borders. Details of this framework have not yet been disclosed. However, Faeser noted that about 30,000 people have been turned away since the partial controls started in 2023. This number is expected to increase with the new measures.

Also Read: Germany Issues 80,000 Work Visas Amidst Growing Labour Shortages

Neighboring Countries’ Reaction

The move has caused concern among neighboring countries. Austria’s Interior Minister Gerhard Karner stated that Austria would not accept any migrants rejected by Germany. “There’s no room for maneuver there,” Karner told domestic news outlets.

Political Context and Public Reaction

The decision to impose border checks comes amid growing political pressure on Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s coalition government. Germany has faced a surge in refugee arrivals in recent years.

Concerns over immigration have heightened, especially following violent incidents involving asylum seekers. In one recent attack, the Islamic State group claimed responsibility for a knife attack in Solingen that killed three people.

Key political points include:

• Migration is a divisive issue in Germany.
• The far-right AfD party, known for its anti-immigration stance, has gained popularity.
• The AfD won its first state election recently in Thuringia.

Upcoming Discussions on Migration Policy

The expanded border controls were announced just before key talks on migration policy between the government and the main opposition. It remains unclear if the CDU/CSU opposition group will join these discussions. Friedrich Merz, the opposition leader, has urged the government to clarify its stance before the talks begin.

Conclusion

Germany’s expanded border controls reflect the country’s efforts to manage migration and safeguard national security. These measures also highlight the broader challenges and political tensions surrounding migration policy across Europe.