Austria has extended temporary border checks with Hungary, Slovakia, the Czech Republic and Slovenia for another six months, citing the need to combat illegal migration and human smuggling.

Border checks to remain in place

Austria will continue carrying out checks at its borders with four neighbouring countries for another six months, Czech Radio reported. The extension applies to Austria’s borders with Hungary, Slovakia, the Czech Republic and Slovenia, all of which are members of the Schengen Area.

Austria’s Interior Minister Gerhard Karner said the measures remain necessary to tackle illegal migration and human smuggling. The Austrian government said the checks should have only a limited impact on people who regularly cross the borders, including commuters travelling to work.

Some checks have also been moved further into border areas rather than being conducted directly at the border, according to the reports.

Never miss a headline: join Daily News Hungary’s official Telegram channel!

Austria says system has become more flexible

The Austrian government said the current system has made border controls more flexible and effective. Austria first introduced checks on its border with the Czech Republic in October 2023. The country has also maintained temporary controls at several other internal Schengen borders in response to migration and security concerns.

Under normal Schengen rules, people can cross between participating countries without routine border checks. However, member states can temporarily reintroduce controls at internal borders in exceptional circumstances, including when they consider them necessary for security reasons.

The extension means travellers crossing from Hungary, Slovakia, the Czech Republic or Slovenia into Austria may continue to encounter checks despite both countries being part of the Schengen Area.

Travellers should therefore allow extra time when crossing the Austrian border, particularly during busy periods, although Austrian authorities say the measures are intended to minimise disruption to regular cross-border travel.

If you missed it: Major changes planned at the Hungary-Austria border: What commuters and travellers should know