Belgium Extends Internal Schengen Entry Checks to Combat Irregular Migration

Belgium Prolongs Internal Schengen Entry Checks

The Belgian federal government has announced the prolongation of its internal Schengen entry checks until at least July 31, 2026. This decision, confirmed on February 1, 2026, aims to address the ongoing challenge of irregular migration and bolster national security.

The 'internal entry checks' are not a reintroduction of full border controls but rather targeted inspections conducted by federal and local police. These checks focus on major roads, motorway service areas, international buses, selected train services (such as at Brussels Midi-station), and intra-Schengen flights originating from what officials describe as 'high-pressure' migration routes, including Italy and Greece.

Rationale and Initial Results

Migration Minister Anneleen Van Bossuyt stated that the measures send a 'necessary signal' that Belgium is no longer a soft option for irregular onward movement within the Schengen Area. Interior Minister Bernard Quintin added that police efforts would increasingly target smuggling networks and drug-related trafficking uncovered during these roadside controls.

The initial phase of these checks, which commenced in July 2025, has yielded significant results. According to figures released by the Interior Ministry, officers inspected approximately 25,500 people during the first six months. Of those inspected:

• Roughly 170 travellers lacked valid residence documents.
• 108 individuals were transferred to the Immigration Office for further processing.
• 23 people were placed in closed return centres.
• 12 individuals were removed to their countries of origin.

Minister Quintin highlighted that Belgium's interception rate is 'significantly higher than the Netherlands'', demonstrating the operation's deterrent effect.

Schengen Context and Broader Migration Policy

These internal checks are implemented under Article 23 of the Schengen Borders Code, which permits Member States to carry out police checks within their territory, provided they do not have an effect equivalent to border checks. This differs from the formal reintroduction of internal border controls under Article 25 of the same code. While internal border controls are generally not permitted within the Schengen Area, they can be temporarily introduced as national security measures.

The prolongation of these checks aligns with a broader tightening of Belgium's migration policy. Other recent measures include parliamentary backing for plans that could lead to the loss of Belgian nationality for individuals convicted of serious offenses like organized crime, homicide, or sex offenses. Additionally, the Flemish authorities implemented significant changes to their immigration rules for foreign workers on January 1, 2026, aiming for highly selective labor migration and enhanced controls against abuse and fraud.