Netherlands extends border controls for 6 months to curb irregular migration

The Dutch government will extend border controls for another six months until June 8, 2026, Minister for Asylum and Migration David van Weel announced in a statement on Monday.



Van Weel said the decision was necessary to counter the "ongoing impact of irregular migration and cross-border crime." He emphasized that protecting public order is a priority and that all necessary measures are being taken to shield the migration system from further strain.



The controls, first implemented in December 2024, are conducted by the Dutch military police, known as the Royal Netherlands Marechaussee, at the borders with Belgium and Germany, as well as on international trains and selected flights deemed high-risk, according to the statement.



Van Weel said the Dutch government was working to minimize the impact on the economy, traffic, and border communities.