The European Union extends temporary land border controls with Switzerland until December 31 2026. Random vehicle inspections occur at Basel, Geneva and Chiasso crossings with average wait times of 25 minutes. The measure covers all Schengen member states bordering Switzerland.
Original controls started in September 2024 after a 40 percent rise in irregular crossings. Swiss authorities agreed to the extension on July 8.
Air and rail borders remain unaffected under the current agreement. Freight traffic receives priority lanes at major crossings.
What this means for you
Carry passports rather than national ID cards when driving across Swiss land borders after July 20. Use the Chiasso crossing only between 0600 and 2200 to avoid longer queues.
Book train tickets via the Gotthard base tunnel for faster Italy-Switzerland travel without road delays.
Controls may become permanent if migration numbers do not decline by March 2027.