Cars undergo thorough inspections at the border with Poland, sparing none.

For over a month now, travellers crossing the Lithuanian-Polish border have encountered significant delays due to tightened border checks. These measures, initiated by Polish security forces, were put in place following Poland's decision to temporarily close the border due to security concerns related to the Belarus border situation.

Starting from September 12, 2025, checkpoints equipped with barbed wire and metal fences have been established at various points along the border. All cars are being checked without exception, with the interior, trunk, and documents of each vehicle being inspected.

This increased scrutiny has led to a substantial increase in the number of people checked by Polish border guards. More than 350,000 people have been processed so far, resulting in 121 individuals being denied entry and 16 suspected individuals of transporting illegal immigrants being detained.

However, these stringent checks have not been without controversy. Residents of the Baltic States, in particular, have been voicing their complaints about the tightened checkpoint procedures. The order at these checkpoints has recently become more rigid, with crossing the border described as akin to a lottery, with unpredictable traffic jams.

Despite these concerns, the exact reason for the heightened controls and potential delays remains unclear. Neither the Polish authorities nor any other official body has provided a reason for these measures, leaving many travellers and residents in the dark.

It is also not specified whether these checks are a temporary or permanent measure. While the number of people denied entry and detained is a small fraction of those checked, the impact on travel and trade cannot be underestimated.

The situation at the Lithuanian-Polish border continues to evolve, with the checkpoints currently operational. As more information becomes available, it is hoped that clarity will be provided regarding the purpose and duration of these tightened border checks.