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Erdem İnce / Lithuania
Border Controls Persist Between Lithuania–Poland Schengen Zones: Congestion and Delays on the Rise
Temporary border controls reintroduced by Poland on the Lithuanian border on July 7, 2025, are still in effect. While the measures are expected to continue until mid-October, significant queues and delays are being reported at border crossings, particularly during weekends. The Polish government cites secondary irregular migration and the migration route directed from Belarus through the Baltic states into Poland as the primary reasons for these controls.
The Lithuanian State Border Guard Service has urged drivers to plan their journeys in advance and opt for less congested alternative crossing points. Traffic density has increased specifically on the Kalvarija–Budzisko route due to the concentration of freight transport at a single point. Authorities noted that crossings other than Lazdijai–Sejny are currently experiencing smoother traffic flow.
According to data shared by the Polish Ministry of Interior, more than 493,000 people were screened at the Lithuanian and German borders between July 7 and August 2. During this period, 61 individuals were denied entry from the Lithuanian side, and 14 individuals were detained on suspicion of aiding irregular migration. The Ministry maintains that the application is "effective in reducing illegal crossings."
In response to Poland's decision, Lithuania announced that it will not implement border controls on its own side. The Lithuanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized that cooperation between the two countries will continue, but Lithuania remains committed to the Schengen principle of free movement.
Authorities advise travelers crossing the border to have their documents ready, monitor traffic conditions regularly, and consider alternative gates during peak hours. It is noted that delays may increase throughout the duration of the implementation, especially on weekends.
