Newly Implemented Border Controls and Asylum Application Volume Causing Delays, Travel Difficulties

European Union

Travelers into, out of and within the European Union and the Schengen Area will be subject to general travel and immigration service processing delays due to the influx of refugees, particularly to Austria, Germany, Hungary and Slovakia.  Importantly, Germany introduced border controls yesterday that caused significant delays at entry and exit ports and other countries are continuing to implement controls.  This is particularly relevant to rail and road border crossings; air travel is unlikely to be affected at this time.

Delays and Suspensions

Trains between Germany and Austria were suspended in both directions from Sunday until Monday morning. It is currently not clear how long other border controls will remain in place.

Foreign nationals should be prepared for immigration document checks on roads and trains throughout the European Union.

Foreign nationals seeking permits and visas at immigration offices in EU countries are experiencing long lines and processing delays due to the volume of asylum applications.  Foreign nationals are advised to arrive at immigration offices well in advance of opening hours and should file renewal and other immigration applications well in advance of the deadlines to avoid additional delays.

What This Means For Foreign Nationals

All travelers, including EU nationals, are strongly advised to carry a valid passport and, as appropriate, residence permit or visa if crossing any international border within the European Union, even if passport-free travel is currently permitted. Train and road travel is likely to be significantly delayed and foreign nationals seeking immigration services in EU countries should account for delays and long lines.

Fragomen will continue monitoring the events and will report on relevant developments.

This alert is for informational purposes only. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the global immigration professional with whom you work at Fragomen or send an email to [email protected].

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