Spain will temporarily reinstate border controls for travelers arriving from Italy, the Spanish Interior Ministry announced on Friday. The measure takes effect at midnight Saturday (22:00 GMT Friday) and will last until September 7, according to the ministry.
The ministry said the controls are a response to the "persistence of irregular migratory pressure" facing Italy. This is a rare step within the Schengen area, where internal border checks are normally abolished.
The decision comes amid ongoing discussions in the European Union about migration management. Spain has previously used similar temporary controls in response to security or health concerns, but this marks the first time it has done so specifically due to migration pressure from another member state.
Travelers between Italy and Spain should expect delays at border crossing points and are advised to carry valid identification documents. The measure will be reviewed before its scheduled end on September 7.
