If you’ve ever traveled through Europe, you’re likely familiar with the convenience of moving between countries without ever having to clear customs. The Schengen Zone, established in 1995, has enabled passport-free travel across 29 countries, making journeys from Italy to France as seamless as crossing the state line between Arizona and California. However, recent changes to the Schengen Zone mean that border checks are making a comeback, and travelers can expect a new reality when exploring Europe starting in 2025.
What is the Schengen Zone?
The Schengen Zone is a unique customs union that abolished passport controls between its member countries, allowing for open borders, freedom of movement, and increased trade and integration. This system has made traveling across Europe easy, but it has also created concerns regarding security, particularly in light of recent geopolitical developments and the ongoing migrant crisis. With more countries suspending the Schengen agreement and reinstating border controls, the region is entering a new phase that travelers must be prepared for.
France Sends a Clear Signal to Europe
France recently surprised the European community by reinstating border controls at all its land crossings, impacting travel to and from six neighboring countries, as well as airside checks. This move was prompted by a noticeable increase in cross-border crime, making travelers coming into France from Belgium, Germany, Italy, Luxembourg, Spain, and Switzerland required to produce valid documentation and inform border officers about the reason for their visit.
This development marks a significant shift from the seamless, borderless travel that Europe has been known for. While initially sounding like any typical international border crossing, this reintroduction of checks within the Schengen Zone is a significant step back from the passport-free status the region has enjoyed for decades.
Why Now?
The resurgence of border checks within the Schengen Zone is largely due to increased concerns over security and the impacts of geopolitical tensions. Member countries, such as France, Austria, Denmark, Germany, Italy, Norway, Slovenia, and Sweden, have reinstated temporary border controls for various reasons, including high levels of irregular migration, organized crime, terrorism-related events, instability caused by the Russo-Ukrainian war, and other security threats.
The introduction of these temporary measures is in line with the Schengen rules, which allow member states to impose border controls for up to six months if there is a need for stricter checks. However, these measures can be renewed if deemed necessary, as seen in Denmark, which has consistently notified the European Commission of intra-Schengen border controls since 2016.
Also Read: Why Americans are applying for second citizenship?
Countries Reinstating Border Controls
Several countries have effectively suspended the Schengen agreement and reintroduced border controls. Here’s a quick overview:
- France: Until April 30, 2025, due to an increase in cross-border crime, travelers entering France from neighboring countries will need to produce valid documentation and may be subject to questioning.
- Austria: Until May 11, 2025, due to high levels of irregular migration, smuggling activities, and security concerns related to the war in Ukraine.
- Denmark: Until May 11, 2025, citing terrorism-related events, organized crime, and instability caused by the Russo-Ukrainian war.
- Germany: Until March 15, 2025, due to migration flows posing threats to public order and security, smuggling activities, and safety concerns related to the Russo-Ukrainian war.
- Italy: Until December 18, 2024, due to ongoing conflict in the Middle East and the risk of terrorist infiltration.
- The Netherlands: Until June 8, 2025, due to irregular migration and increased criminal incidents at reception centers.
- Norway: Until May 11, 2025, due to threats to its energy sector and ongoing improvements in infrastructure protection.
- Slovenia: Until December 21, 2024, due to instability in the Middle East and organized crime.
- Sweden: Until May 11, 2025, due to recent terrorism incidents and increased gun violence.
These measures are intended to ensure that travelers, including those from the U.S. and other non-European countries, understand that moving between Schengen countries will require stricter checks and more preparation.
Impact on U.S. Travelers and Other Non-European Tourists
For travelers from the U.S. and other non-European countries, the return of border checks within the Schengen Zone will mean more time spent at border crossings. When entering the affected countries, travelers will be required to clear customs, even if their point of departure is another Schengen country. This is a shift from the seamless travel experience travelers have enjoyed for years.
- What does this mean in practice?
Travelers should expect delays when crossing borders, especially when traveling by bus or train. Border guards may step onboard to verify passports and travel documents and ask travelers questions. While you won’t get stamped again if you’ve already been stamped in another Schengen country, border guards will take the opportunity to ensure compliance with the new regulations. - 90-Day Rule
The Schengen accord’s 90-day rule remains in effect. Travelers from the U.S. and other non-European countries cannot be present in the Schengen Zone for longer than 90 days out of any 180-day period. Those caught overstaying will face severe consequences, such as fines, immediate deportation from the Schengen Zone, or even a re-entry ban. Travelers must respect this rule and have all necessary documentation ready.
Fingerprinting and Travel Permits Required from 2025
The Schengen Zone is also implementing a new Entry-Exit System starting in 2025. This system will require travelers, including U.S. passport holders, to be fingerprinted and registered upon landing in a Schengen country. Their information will be stored in a database for up to three years for security purposes.
In addition, the ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) will come into force in 2025. U.S. passport holders will no longer be allowed to board a Europe-bound flight without pre-authorization. This online travel permit will cost 7 euros and will be required to travel within the Schengen Zone.
This new system represents a significant shift in how travelers interact with the Schengen Zone and underscores the region’s ongoing commitment to security.
What Travelers Should Do
For travelers planning to visit Europe in 2025 and beyond, here are some essential steps to take:
- Respect the 90-Day Rule: Americans cannot be present in the Schengen Zone for longer than 90 days out of any 180-day period. Overstaying will result in fines or deportation.
- Have Your Documentation Ready: This includes your passport, supporting documents that prove you’re a tourist in Europe, and proof of your return journey.
- Prepare for Delays When Traveling via Land: As border controls become stricter, travelers can expect longer wait times at border crossings. Be prepared to spend additional time at border stations.
- Understand the New Entry-Exit System: Travelers will need to be fingerprinted upon arrival in a Schengen country and have their information stored in a database for security reasons.
Conclusion: The New Reality of Traveling in the Schengen Zone
The return of border checks within the Schengen Zone marks a new chapter in European travel. While it might take some time to adjust, travelers can rest assured that these measures are being implemented with security in mind. The Schengen Zone remains one of the most attractive destinations for international travelers, but travelers must be prepared for a different travel experience in 2025. By understanding the new rules and requirements, travelers will be better equipped to navigate the region and enjoy all that Europe has to offer.
Whether you’re planning a vacation, business trip, or extended stay in Europe, staying informed and compliant with the new regulations will ensure a smooth journey. The Mansory Immigration Consultants team is here to help you navigate these changes and make your European travel plans a success!
