Italy and Spain Extend Border Checks on Flights and Ferries
Italy and Spain have extended temporary border controls on air and sea travel between the two countries after restrictions introduced during the Ceuta migration crisis were due to expire. Italy announced a further 15 days of checks on 31 August, while Spain said its own controls would also continue for another 15 days. The measures normally affect passport-free travel within the Schengen area.
The two systems work differently. Italy’s checks target third-country nationals arriving directly from Spain, while Spanish and other EU citizens are not subject to the additional Italian controls. Spain applies its checks more broadly to all passengers arriving by air or sea directly from Italy, regardless of nationality, although each traveller is processed according to their EU or non-EU status.
What Changes at Airports and Ports
- Italy-bound: Targeted checks on non-EU nationals arriving directly from Spain.
- Spain-bound: Checks can apply to every passenger arriving directly from Italy.
- Transport: Passenger flights, ferries and other sea links are covered.
- Exceptions: Spanish rules exclude technical stops in Italy where no passengers board.
- Terminals: No fixed airport terminal list has been published.
- Cost: There is no border-control fee.
- Delays: No official extra processing time has been stated.
- Documents: Keep a passport, eligible EU ID and any required visa or residence permit accessible.
Anyone travelling Italy–Spain should allow more time after arrival, particularly with a tight onward train, flight or ferry connection. Online check-in does not replace a possible document inspection. Spain’s order requires controls to be proportionate and designed to limit waiting times, but delays will depend on the airport, port and volume of arrivals. Check the carrier and airport or port website shortly before departure.
The change does not add a visa requirement or stop normal flights and ferries, but passengers should no longer assume an Italy–Spain journey will work exactly like an unrestricted domestic-style Schengen trip. The direction of travel matters: EU citizens arriving in Italy are not the target of Italy’s measure, while Spain’s system is broader. Anyone travelling later in September should recheck the dates because both extensions remain temporary.
