Dutch border controls curb illegal immigration, economic impact remains limited
The border controls introduced by the Dutch government last year to limit illegal immigration have had limited and manageable economic effects, according to interviews by BNR with businesses and industry groups. Despite initial fears of traffic disruption, the controls’ small scale and flexible implementation have prevented significant delays or congestion.
The ANWB, the Dutch travelers’ association, confirmed that the current border controls have not caused traffic jams or delays. This contrasts sharply with the impact of similar border checks in neighboring Germany, where daily traffic jams often occur—especially on the A1 near the Oldenzaal border crossing.
Concerns about millions in economic damage have not materialized. The German-Dutch Chamber of Commerce (DNHK) estimated that the controls on both sides of the border might cost the business sector 60 million euros per month. However, its member companies report that the economic damage is under control.
Transport and logistics organization TLN said the effects on freight transport have been limited so far. Average delays caused by the controls are around 20 to 30 minutes, with occasional delays reaching up to an hour. TLN believes these delays remain manageable for most companies operating near the borders.
Both TLN and DNHK emphasized the importance of European cooperation and maintaining open borders. TLN called for a careful evaluation of the controls, urging a balanced assessment of “the actual effect of the controls” and how these relate to “the logistical consequences.”
The border controls have now been in place for six months. When the plans were announced, several parties expressed concern to Minister Marjolein Faber of Asylum and Migration. The 46 border municipalities described the controls as “a step backward” that would cause “unnecessary inconvenience” for residents and businesses. Employers’ organization VNO-NCW feared high costs from traffic congestion.
In March, Minister Faber informed the Tweede Kamer that “250 unique foreigners” had been denied entry to the Netherlands for failing to meet admission criteria. In April, she announced the government’s decision to extend the controls by six months due to “the continuing threat to public order.”
Before the controls began, the Royal Marechaussee worked with the so-called Mobile Security Supervision (MTV), which carried out occasional checks on roads and trains. The new border controls replace the MTV and allow the Marechaussee to conduct more frequent and extensive checks. A spokesperson confirmed that so far, the controls have not led to any incidents.
