Poland has extended enhanced border controls at its land crossings with Germany and Lithuania, effective 2 October 2026 through 30 March 2027. The decision was notified to the European Commission in late September and reported by Reuters on 1 October.
The controls do not suspend Schengen Area freedom of movement, but they do mean that travellers crossing these borders by land - including by car, bus, or train - may be asked to present a valid identity document such as a passport or national ID card.
What the Controls Involve
Poland’s interior ministry described the measures as selective checks rather than a systematic stop of all vehicles or pedestrians. The stated reason is migration pressure along the Belarus route, through which irregular crossings into Poland, Lithuania, and Latvia have continued at elevated levels in recent months.
In practice, EU and EEA citizens and nationals of countries with visa-free access to the Schengen Area should not encounter significant delays when travelling with valid documentation. Those crossing from Germany or Lithuania should ensure they carry a passport or national identity card rather than relying solely on a driving licence or other non-photo ID.
Borders Affected
- Germany–Poland: Land crossings along the full border, including those used by travellers arriving from Berlin, Frankfurt an der Oder, and other points west
- Lithuania–Poland: Land crossings in the northeast, most relevant for those travelling overland from Vilnius or the Baltic states
Air travel to and from Poland is unaffected. Arrivals at Warsaw Chopin, Kraków John Paul II, and other Polish airports undergo normal passport/ID checks as part of existing Schengen entry procedures.
Planning Your Visit
If you’re arriving in Poland by train from Germany - for example, on the Berlin–Warsaw or Berlin–Kraków services - carry your passport with you and be prepared for a brief check, which typically takes a few minutes and does not cause significant delays. No additional visa or documentation beyond your normal travel documents is required.
Our getting around Poland guide covers train, bus, and car options from neighbouring countries.