While Germany and the Netherlands are both members of the Schengen Area, which typically allows for border-free travel, there are currently temporary internal border controls in place as of early 2026. The Netherlands reintroduced these checks in December 2024, and they have been extended through June 8, 2026, to combat irregular migration and human smuggling. Similarly, Germany has extended its own internal border checks through September 2026. These are not "systematic" stops for every vehicle, but rather "risk-based" checks performed by the Royal Netherlands Marechaussee and the German Federal Police. Travelers crossing by car, bus, or international train should expect occasional delays and are legally required to carry a valid passport or national ID card at all times. This modernization of border surveillance reflects a broader European trend of utilizing temporary security measures while still attempting to minimize the impact on the daily commute of residents in the border regions.