The Netherlands Reintroduces Border Control in The Schengen Area

The Netherlands is part of the Schengen zone, a group of 29 countries that have agreed to abolish internal border checks for travelers. This means that travelers within the Schengen area can go from one Schengen country to another without having to pass through border control and security. 

In some cases, Schengen countries can temporarily reintroduce border control, and that’s what the Netherlands has decided to do.

As of December 9th, 2024, land border checks were imposed on travelers from neighboring countries, as well as for some arriving flights. 

If you’re traveling to the Netherlands by land (from neighboring Belgium or Germany), you may need to pass through border control until the temporary reinstatement ends.

Checks are conducted by the Royal Netherlands Marechaussee. For large-scale checks, they will sometimes close off sections of roads and check some of the vehicles that are passing through. In this case, they might also temporarily change the speed limit, too.

If taking an international train, the Royal Netherlands Marechaussee may be on board to check the travelers' documents. If this instance, they will walk from train car to train car to check everyone's papers.

Checks can also happen at airports.

Note that this border reinstatement doesn't impact Schengen visa requirements.

Can the Netherlands impose border controls? 

How will this impact your travels? 

If you’re traveling to the Netherlands from Germany or Belgium (by land), border checks may be imposed. Some flights may also have border checks.

Because of this, make sure you have your passport/visa with you while traveling to and from the Netherlands.

In her official statement, Dutch Migration Minister Marjolein Faber noted that there will be efforts to minimize the impact on commuter traffic and economic traffic. 

Why is the Netherlands reintroducing border controls? 

According to a statement given on November 11th, 2024, by Minister Faber, border controls are being implemented “to tackle irregular migration and migrant smuggling in a concrete way.” 

How long will border controls be in effect in the Netherlands?

Land border controls will go into effect on December 9th, 2024. It was announced that these additional checks will last for 6 months; that said, they have extended checks. Now, these border checks are expected to last through June 8, 2026, at minimum.