Denmark, Sweden and Norway Extend Schengen Border Checks from November 12
Travelling between European countries could involve additional border checks over the coming months, as Denmark, Sweden and Norway extend their temporary internal Schengen border controls from 12 November 2026.
According to the European Commission, the measures will remain in place until 11 May 2027. Although the three countries share the same control period, the borders affected differ. Travellers should therefore understand how the changes could affect their journeys.
What Has Changed?
Denmark, Norway and Sweden have notified the European Commission that they will continue temporary border controls at specified internal Schengen borders.
These measures are permitted under the Schengen Borders Code in exceptional circumstances involving serious threats to public policy or internal security. They are intended to be temporary and proportionate.
Importantly, this does not mean that the Schengen Area has been suspended.
Which Borders Will Be Affected?
The European Commission has outlined different arrangements for each country.
Denmark: Temporary checks will apply at land and sea borders with Germany. The notification refers to continued security concerns, including possible sabotage, terrorism-related incidents and organised crime.
Norway: Controls will apply at ports with ferry connections to the Schengen Area. The stated reasons include concerns about threats to the energy sector and possible sabotage.
Sweden: Controls will apply at all internal borders, covering land, air and sea borders, as well as land borders with Denmark. The notification identifies several security and border-management concerns, including organised crime and wider security threats.
The measures are scheduled to run from 12 November 2026 until 11 May 2027.
What Does This Mean for Travellers?
Travellers moving between affected countries may encounter additional identity or border checks during their journeys.
This could be particularly relevant to people travelling by road, ferry or air, depending on their route and the controls in operation.
Anyone planning a journey through Denmark, Norway or Sweden should:
- Check their travel route and any affected border crossings before departure.
- Allow flexibility in their travel arrangements.
- Carry the relevant travel and identity documents.
- Monitor official announcements for changes to border-control arrangements.
The extension does not, by itself, introduce a new Schengen visa requirement or change the existing visa arrangements.
Has the Schengen Area Been Suspended?
No. The Schengen Area continues to operate as a framework for travel between its participating countries.
The European Commission explains that internal border checks have generally been abolished between Schengen countries. However, temporary controls can be reintroduced as a measure of last resort when serious security or public-policy threats arise.
The current notifications from Denmark, Norway and Sweden are examples of these temporary arrangements.
What Should You Do Before Travelling?
If your journey involves any of the three countries, check the latest official information before setting off. Your route, travel documents and the purpose of your visit should all be considered when preparing for international travel.
Would additional border checks change your European travel plans? Talk to us in the comment section below. Or if you need more advice on the above, contact us for further travel & immigration advice.
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