On Wednesday, September 9, 2026, the Czech Republic started a 24-hour large-scale training called «Podzim 2026» (Autumn 2026), which involves restoring border control along the entire 251-kilometer border with Slovakia (Slovakia - Slovak Republic). More than 600 police officers, 50 active reserve soldiers of the Army of the Czech Republic, and 60 employees of the Czech Customs Administration are involved in the operation.
What does this mean for travelers?
During the training, which will last until 7:00 a.m. on Thursday, September 10, vehicles entering Czechia, including cars, buses, and bicycles, will be checked at border crossings. Control also extends to railway and river crossings, as well as the so-called “green” border section outside official checkpoints.
The Ministry of the Interior of the Czech Republic warns that these measures may cause short-term traffic delays, especially on the D2 highway. Checks on international trains will be conducted jointly with the Slovak police.
Why is Czechia strengthening control?
Although the current measures are part of the training, Czechia has previously introduced enhanced control at the border with Slovakia (Slovakia - Slovak Republic). For example, the Czech government officially confirmed the strengthening of control measures due to a significant increase in the number of illegal migrants arriving via the so-called Balkan route. Special attention was then paid to railway connections, where attempts of illegal border crossing were recorded.
It is worth noting that Austria has also extended temporary passport control at land borders with Czechia, Slovakia (Slovakia - Slovak Republic), Hungary, and Slovenia until November 15, 2026, due to a high level of illegal migration.
What to do if you are traveling?
The Ministry of the Interior of Czechia recommends all citizens to carry the necessary documents to avoid misunderstandings and possible unpleasant situations. The evaluation of the training results will continue over the next weeks.
If you plan to travel between Slovakia (Slovakia - Slovak Republic) and Czechia, consider possible delays and checks. Up-to-date information about changes in border crossing rules can be found on the official websites of border services.
Source: pravda.sk
