Brussels: European Union (EU) member states have increasingly implemented internal border controls to address irregular migration from Asia and Africa. These measures aim to curtail illegal entries and prevent the growing trend of refugees arriving in one country and moving to another.
Germany’s Border Controls
In September 2024, Germany imposed border controls on all its neighbouring Schengen member states, citing the need to safeguard national security and combat illegal immigration. These measures, initially implemented for six months until March 2025, may be extended if the situation does not improve.
Netherlands Tightens Border Inspections
The Netherlands introduced border checks with its Schengen neighbours, Belgium and Germany, effective December 9, 2024. The measures, in place for six months, focus on inspecting vehicles suspected of carrying undocumented migrants. Officials assured that these checks would not cause significant disruptions for lawful travellers.
France and Other Schengen Countries Expand Controls
France has also introduced stricter border measures to address irregular migration. Similarly, Norway, Denmark, and Sweden have adopted controls along their borders. In Southern Europe, Slovenia, Italy, and Austria have expanded their border control policies:
Slovenia: Restrictions on borders with Croatia and Hungary, initially implemented in June 2024, have been extended until June 2025.
Italy: Border measures with Slovenia will continue beyond December 19, 2024.
Austria: Lengthy checks remain in place on its borders with Hungary and Slovenia.
Schengen Visa Fee Increase
The EU has raised Schengen visa fees across almost all categories, including for children:
- Standard visa fees have increased from €80 to €90.
- Fees for children have risen from €40 to €45.
- For applicants from countries that do not cooperate with EU authorities on readmitting citizens illegally staying in the bloc, fees have increased significantly from €135 to €180.
Citizens of countries with visa facilitation agreements remain unaffected by these changes, as do those exempt from visa fees.
Postponement of the Entry/Exit System (EES)
The launch of the EU’s Entry/Exit System (EES), designed to streamline visa-free entry procedures, has been delayed yet again. Originally slated for November 10, 2024, the system is now expected to launch in 2025. The EES will collect biometric data, including fingerprints and facial images, which will be stored for three years to track the movement of non-EU nationals entering and exiting the EU. The system aims to detect overstayers, prevent identity fraud, and combat irregular migration.
Vanuatu Loses Visa-Free Travel Privileges
The EU removed Vanuatu from its list of countries eligible for visa-free travel in December 2024, citing the country’s failure to meet EU standards for investor citizenship schemes. Relations between the EU and Vanuatu are governed by the Partnership Agreement between the European Union and the Organisation of African, Caribbean, and Pacific States.
This move marks a significant shift in the EU’s stance on its visa-free travel agreements, signalling stricter enforcement of compliance with EU standards.
As the EU continues to strengthen its migration policies, these measures reflect broader efforts to enhance border security and manage immigration effectively across member states.
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