The European Commission’s latest update to the Schengen Border Control database, published 14 September, confirms that France will keep temporary controls at all its internal borders until 31 October 2026. Paris first re-introduced checks on 1 May, citing persistent jihadist threats, rising antisemitic attacks and migrant-smuggling networks operating around the Channel coast. The notification extends checks at land crossings with Belgium, Germany, Luxembourg, Switzerland, Italy and Spain, as well as sea and air borders, including ferry terminals serving the United Kingdom. Business travellers driving or taking rail services between France and neighbouring EU states should continue to carry passports or national ID cards, even though they normally are exempt inside Schengen. French authorities say spot checks remain “targeted and risk-based,” but logistics companies report average border-crossing times on the A40 (France–Italy) and A22 (France–Spain) have lengthened by 12–20 minutes since May. Eurotunnel freight operators have also seen intensified vehicle scans for hidden migrants. The extension coincides with preparations for the Evian G7 summit next month and elevated security for autumn cultural events in Paris and Lyon. Under EU rules, France must submit a proportionality report to the European Parliament once the control period ends or hits 12 months. Corporations should factor possible queues into just-in-time supply chains and advise assignees on documentation requirements—for example, UK nationals resident in France must hold valid residence permits as well as passports when re-entering. The Commission notes that multiple member states—including Germany, Austria and Italy—have also prolonged controls citing migration pressures and the security fallout from global conflicts. Mobility teams with pan-European staff movements may face a patchwork of checks through early 2027.
