Warsaw Extends Border Controls Amid Migration Pressure from Belarus
On Wednesday, Poland announced an extension of temporary border controls with Germany and Lithuania until April 4, 2026, in a bid to combat irregular migration, reports 24brussels.
Interior Minister Marcin Kierwiński confirmed the decision, emphasizing the “success of the initial checks” implemented since July 2025. The extended controls aim to monitor migration routes stretching from the Baltic nations through Poland to Western Europe, noting that “several people have already been caught attempting to smuggle migrants westward.”
Kierwiński described the measures as “effective and carried out with the full understanding and support of our European partners,” highlighting the results achieved thus far.
Originally introduced from July 6 to 7, the border checks are unusual for Schengen Area members, following Germany’s earlier imposition of similar controls on its border with Poland since 2023.
Prime Minister Donald Tusk labeled the border measures “irrevocable” and “absolutely necessary” during their announcement on July 1, stating that they would help “minimize the uncontrolled flow of irregular migrants.” Since the checks began, nearly half a million individuals have been scrutinized at the borders with Germany and Lithuania, resulting in the denial of entry to 185 foreign nationals, primarily due to insufficient documentation.
The government cited “persistent migration pressure” from Belarus as a key factor justifying the extension, with the Polish Border Guard reporting over 24,000 illegal crossing attempts from Belarus between January 1 and August 31, 2025.
Under the Schengen Borders Code, member states may reinstate internal controls for up to six months in the event of a foreseeable serious threat, with the possibility of consecutive extensions up to a total of two years.
