In response to heightened security threats and regional instability, France has announced the extension of its internal border checks along its Schengen borders with neighboring countries, set to continue from 1 November 2024 until 20 April 2025. The decision marks a further intensification of measures initially implemented due to growing concerns over terrorism and criminal organizations connected to illegal migration. For the millions of travelers accustomed to smooth border crossings within the Schengen Area, these additional checks signify potential delays and underscore ongoing security challenges within Europe.
Traditionally, travelers within the Schengen Area can move freely between member countries without being subject to passport controls or prolonged checks, a hallmark of European integration and ease of travel. However, the Schengen framework allows temporary border control reintroductions for up to six months, given legitimate security concerns. France’s extended border controls are among the latest examples of EU countries enacting such measures.
French authorities have cited increasing threats of terrorism and organized crime as primary motivators behind the decision. The new controls will be in place at France’s borders with Belgium, Spain, Luxembourg, Switzerland, Germany, and Italy, affecting land, air, and sea routes. For travelers arriving from other Schengen countries, such as those entering by train or car from Germany or Spain, an official ID, such as a passport or national ID card, will be required. These checks also mean that non-EU nationals living in France may need to present residence permits, adding another layer of verification.
For the millions of Europeans and non-Europeans alike who use Schengen’s open borders for both business and leisure, the new measures could result in significant delays, especially at land borders. Travelers arriving by car or bus from neighboring countries have been warned to allow additional time for crossings. Increased checks on cross-border travel between France and Germany have already led to congestion and queues at several checkpoints. A similar scenario is anticipated at other French borders with Belgium, Luxembourg, and Spain, as security forces inspect vehicles and verify passenger identities.
With Germany introducing comparable security measures in September 2024, leading to traffic jams and other disruptions along its own Schengen borders, both France and Germany are taking precautions to prevent unauthorized entry and reduce risks of criminal activities, which often utilize the ease of cross-border movement to carry out illegal operations. However, these controls are expected to place a strain on transit times, particularly for those reliant on road and rail travel across these borders.
France’s new measures align with a trend observed across other European countries, where heightened security concerns have led to the reinstatement of border controls. Austria, for instance, has stepped up checks at its borders with Slovenia and Hungary until 11 November, while Denmark, Norway, and Sweden have implemented additional controls on their internal borders through the same period. In Slovenia, increased controls at the Croatian and Hungarian borders are scheduled to remain active until 21 December 2024.
While France and other Schengen countries are extending border controls within the region, the measures do not affect travelers arriving from non-Schengen countries, where passport checks and customs inspections are already the norm. For non-EU nationals entering the Schengen zone, requirements such as passport stamps and compliance with the maximum 90-day stay rule remain unchanged.
France’s recent security adjustments demonstrate how the threat of terrorism and migration-related criminal activity has reshaped Europe’s approach to internal security. Although the Schengen Agreement was designed to promote seamless movement and integration, recent events have prompted several member states to re-evaluate this approach, with threats of terrorism, in particular, becoming a growing concern, as European nations increasingly aim to protect their citizens without jeopardizing the core principles of Schengen.
For France, the decision to extend these measures until April 2025 highlights an ongoing commitment to national security and regional stability amid a changing landscape. Although the adjustments may disrupt travel in the short term, French officials have emphasized that the controls are intended as a temporary measure, subject to further review based on security needs and risk assessments.
With stricter controls coming into effect, travelers within the Schengen Area are advised to prepare for potential delays. Those crossing French borders via land, in particular, should plan additional time into their journeys. For individuals needing to enter France from neighboring Schengen countries, carrying proper identification will be essential to avoid complications. French officials and border agencies will be working to manage queues and reduce delays, though high travel periods, such as holidays, may exacerbate congestion at key border crossings.
