Norway: Border controls extended until November 11

Event

The Norwegian government announced on May 10 that temporary border controls currently in place at maritime borders would be extended by another six months, until November 11, 2017. As such, Norwegian authorities will maintain checkpoints at Norwegian ports with ferry connections to Denmark, Germany, and Sweden. Travel delays due to enhanced ID checks should be anticipated.

Context

Since 2015, five countries - Austria, Denmark, Germany, Norway, and Sweden - have reinstated controls at their border due to the huge influx of migrants. The current Schengen Borders Code allows the implementation of temporary border controls for Member States in case of serious threat to public policy or internal security. The current border control policy has been renewed multiple times, with the previous extension occurring in February and lasting until May 11.

Advice

Travelers should always carry passports or other appropriate identification documents issued by their respective countries when crossing the border to or from Norway. Allow for extra time when crossing the border due to possible delays and cooperate with authorities.