The European Union extended temporary border controls with Serbia, North Macedonia, and Albania until December 31. The decision took effect July 1 and applies to road, rail, and ferry entries. Officers conduct random document and vehicle checks at 18 designated crossing points.
Checks aim to curb irregular migration flows that rose 22 percent in the first quarter of 2026. Average wait times at the Serbia-Hungary border reached 45 minutes during peak holiday periods last summer. The extension follows similar measures already active on the EU's eastern frontier with Belarus and Russia.
Schengen Area countries retain the right to reintroduce internal border controls for up to six months under the Schengen Borders Code. The current controls represent the longest continuous use of the provision since 2015. EU officials will review the situation again in November.
What this means for you
Allow extra time when driving from Belgrade to Budapest or from Tirana to Thessaloniki this summer. Keep passports and vehicle registration documents easily accessible at all times. Consider flying directly into Schengen airports to avoid land border queues entirely.
Book flexible train tickets that permit date changes without fees in case of extended delays. Monitor the EU border agency Frontex app for real-time wait times at major crossings before departure.