Italy-Spain border checks will continue for 15 more days after the current period ends on 23 September. Italy cites internal security risks, while Spain says the circumstances behind its controls remain.
Travellers using direct links should expect random inspections at Spanish airports and ports. Italy is also maintaining its controls on travel from Spain.
Spain has formally notified Brussels of its extension
Spain has informed the European Commission that its temporary measure will remain in force until 8 October.
The Spanish Interior Ministry says the conditions that prompted the controls have not changed. Madrid has extended its checks each time Rome has prolonged its own measure.
Italian Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi announced Rome’s latest 15-day extension. It is Italy’s second extension since the controls began.
The measures followed migrant arrivals in Ceuta
The controls started in early August after tens of thousands of migrants arrived in Ceuta, Spain’s enclave on the North African coast.
Italy then increased its monitoring of travel from Spain. Madrid responded with checks at airports and seaports offering direct connections to Italy.
Spain and Italy belong to the Schengen area, where travellers normally cross internal borders without routine immigration inspections. Member countries can temporarily restore checks when governments identify security concerns.
Italy-Spain border checks: allow more time at direct links
Passengers should carry the travel documents required for their journey and allow additional time at airports and ferry terminals.
- Be prepared for an inspection even though the checks are random.
- Review departure information from the airline or ferry operator before travelling.
- Keep required identification and other travel documents readily accessible.
The extension concerns border screening rather than transport schedules. Travellers with journeys close to the end date should watch for any further announcement from either government.
