Slovenia will keep border checks with Croatia and Hungary in place until June 21st, 2025. These checks started in October 2023.
The government announced the extension on November 21st, 2024, citing the need to protect citizens from increased terrorism risks.
Reducing illegal crossings and smuggling
Slovenia first introduced the border checks because of instability in the Middle East, which led to more migration and concerns about terrorism in Europe.
The Slovenian Government Communication Office stated that the checks aim to keep borders secure and stop illegal activities.
Since the checks began, they have reportedly reduced illegal border crossings. In the first ten months of 2024, Slovenia saw an 18% decrease in crossings compared to the same period in 2023. Authorities also arrested 468 people for smuggling this year.
Neighboring extended border controls impacting Slovakia
Slovenia’s decision follows similar actions by neighboring countries. Italy has extended border checks with Slovenia until June 2025, and Austria will keep controls on its borders with Slovenia and Hungary until May 2025.
Other European countries, including Germany, France, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, and the Netherlands, have also extended or introduced internal border measures to address irregular migration and security concerns.
Minimizing disruption to daily life
Slovenian authorities have emphasized that the extended border checks will cause little disruption to daily life. They will focus on making the process efficient to avoid delays for travelers and keep business running smoothly.
The government assured border-area residents that the checks would not significantly affect their routines.
Evolving dynamics of Schengen border policies
The continued border checks coincide with the upcoming launch of the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS). The ETIAS will strengthen security checks for travelers entering the Schengen Area, helping to monitor and manage migration.
Slovenia’s decision reflects a wider EU effort to balance open movement with tighter security.
These changes also show the shifting approach to Schengen visa policies.
While the Schengen Agreement supports open borders, Article 27 of the Schengen Borders Code allows countries to temporarily reinstate internal checks to address specific security concerns.
Balancing Schengen, security challenges
Slovenia’s actions reflect broader changes in European immigration policy.
As migration levels and security threats remain key concerns, more countries are acting independently to manage their borders. These measures highlight the challenge of balancing Schengen’s open-border principles with modern security needs.
For Slovenia, border checks support its strategy of securing its territory while working with EU institutions. By notifying the European Commission, Parliament, and other member states, the government ensures transparency and follows EU rules.
What’s next?
Slovenia’s decision to extend border checks shows a careful response to current security and migration challenges. It highlights the need for EU-wide solutions to address the causes of migration and terrorism.
While the June 2025 deadline is far off, the EU is likely to have more debates on balancing security with the principles of the Schengen Agreement.