Germany: Border controls with Austria extended until May 2019

Event

The German government has announced that border controls in place along the Austrian border since 2016 will be extended for an additional six months from November 12, lasting until May 2019. A heightened police presence and more frequent checks on cars and individuals crossing the border, along with associated delays, are to be anticipated throughout the duration of the measure.

Context

Germany is one of 26 European countries included within the "Schengen Area," all of which have agreed to passport-free travel and the elimination of border controls at their mutual borders. Border controls can be reintroduced on a temporary basis if the country wishing to do so cites a "serious threat to public policy or internal security."

Advice

Travelers are advised to travel with proper documentation (passport, visa, etc.), expect longer wait times at the German-Danish border, and monitor developments to the situation.