Poland extends border controls with Germany and Lithuania

Poland has extended temporary border controls at its frontiers with Germany and Lithuania until March 30, 2027. The decision, which takes effect on October 2, 2026, is intended to curb illegal migration and enhance national security.

The controls are selective in nature, meaning not every traveler will be stopped. The Polish Border Guard, supported by the police and military, conducts these checks at selected road crossings and via rail transport. Since the initial reintroduction of these controls, authorities have inspected over 4.5 million individuals and approximately 2.3 million vehicles. To date, nearly 1,200 individuals have been denied entry at the German border.

Travelers are advised to carry valid identification, such as passports, driving licenses, and vehicle registration documents, to avoid delays. Germany also maintains its own temporary internal border controls, meaning travelers may encounter inspections on both sides of the border.