Berlin – German Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt, 55, of the CSU party, intends to extend temporary internal border controls at all German land borders for another six months, according to reports. The measures will be prolonged beyond March 15th and a formal notification will be submitted to the European Commission in Brussels.
These controls are an exception within the Schengen Area and require formal notification to the EU Commission.
Dobrindt Defends Decision
The German government’s stated goals remain the protection of internal security and public order, as well as the further reduction of illegal migration. Dobrindt stated to BILD, “We are extending the border controls at the borders to our neighboring countries. The border controls are an element of our reorganization of migration policy in Germany.”
The decision means that random checks and potential delays at crossings to all nine neighboring states will continue until at least September 2026 for travelers, commuters, and the logistics sector. Anyone crossing a border must always carry identification.
The Impact of the Controls
Since their introduction, the Federal Police have registered 67,918 unauthorized entries through stationary controls at all nine neighboring states. 46,426 people were directly turned away at the border or deported in connection with an illegal border crossing. Simultaneously, the number of first-time asylum applications is decreasing.
According to figures from the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF), 7,649 people submitted a first asylum application in January. In the same month of the previous year, almost twice as many first-time applications were registered.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of extending the border controls?
The stated purpose is to protect internal security and public order, and to further reduce illegal migration.
How long will the border controls be in place?
The controls are extended for another six months, continuing until at least September 2026.
What should travelers expect at the borders?
Travelers should expect random checks and possible delays at crossings to all nine neighboring states, and must always carry identification.
As Germany continues to navigate its migration policies, what impact might these extended border controls have on regional cooperation within the Schengen Area?
