Due to the increase in illegal migration to the EU, the Netherlands is tightening border controls starting in December this year. Learn about the new border crossing rules, the duration of the restrictions and their impact on travelers

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Starting from December 9, 2024, the Royal Netherlands Military Police will carry out additional border control. According to NOS, this decision was made by the government in response to the growing flow of illegal migrants and human smuggling. Restrictions on the free movement of people and goods are introduced for a preliminary period of six months.

Peculiarities of checks at the entrance to the Netherlands

Currently, the military police will not receive additional personnel for control. According to Minister of Asylum Faber, the intensity of checks will be determined on a daily or weekly basis, depending on the situation. It is important to note that the control will be carried out in a way that minimizes the impact on:

● economic traffic

● suburban traffic in the border regions

● the operation of airports (including Schiphol), where only high-risk flights will be checked.

The Royal Military Police is currently studying the details of the new control measures. Specific plans for organizing inspections are still being developed, so the details of their practical implementation will be made public later.

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Why are border controls being introduced on a massive scale in Europe?

It is worth noting that the Netherlands is not the first EU country to take such measures. A similar practice has already been introduced: Germany and France have already introduced similar practices to combat terrorism and illegal migration.

It is worth noting that under current rules, EU member states have the right to introduce border controls only in the event of unforeseen circumstances or in emergency situations. And according to the government, the current situation meets such criteria due to the large number of asylum seekers. This measure can last up to six months with the possibility of extension up to a maximum of two years.

The decision to tighten controls was foreseen in the main government agreement and is part of the asylum deal concluded by the coalition last month. However, some experts and opposition parties have expressed doubts about whether these measures comply with European rules.

Minister Faber has already informed Brussels and other EU member states of the decision, in compliance with the four-week notification requirement.

⚡️ Important advice for travelers: when planning a trip to the Netherlands by car, be sure to take care of obtaining a Green Card - an international insurance policy that will protect you during your trip and is mandatory for entry into the EU.

We remind you! The Dutch authorities have unveiled an updated program that provides for significant changes in the field of migration, aiming to significantly reduce the inflow of migrants and strengthen control over asylum. Read more about what awaits refugees in the country in our previous article.

Photo: ANP

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