Story perspectives

Gibraltar Rejoins Schengen, Customs Union, Fence Removed.

7/19/2026

Center

Picardo Opens Border

The EU-UK treaty effective 15 July placed Gibraltar within the EU’s Schengen travel area and established a new customs union.
The chain-link fence on the Spain-Gibraltar border was removed on 15 July, ending land checks.
Chief Minister Fabian Picardo proclaimed “Europe is back” as crowds crossed the barrier waving flags.
Residents use identity cards at border, while visitors undergo entry-exit checks at airport or ferry.

Left

Gibraltar Deploys Surveillance

Gibraltar authorities announced plans to create a “digital fortress” using CCTV, facial-recognition and ANPR cameras linked to international wanted lists.
The border fence was removed, allowing 15,000 Spanish commuters to cross Gibraltar without passport checks, ending queues and reuniting families.
A cook expressed worries that the border and surveillance could increase risks for residents.
Leaders warned the 15% tax and competition could raise housing costs in La Línea, inequality.

History

Historical Context

Spain entered the Schengen Area on 26 March 1995, abolishing internal passport checks across the EU. Building on that framework, the 11 June 2025 agreement shifted Gibraltar’s external controls to its airport and seaport, and on 20 June 2026 Spain dismantled the La Línea fence, a step that still awaits UK ratification, instantly freeing the 15,000 daily commuters between Gibraltar and Spain.

1 of 3

Picardo Opens Border

The EU-UK treaty effective 15 July placed Gibraltar within the EU’s Schengen travel area and established a new customs union.
The chain-link fence on the Spain-Gibraltar border was removed on 15 July, ending land checks.
Chief Minister Fabian Picardo proclaimed “Europe is back” as crowds crossed the barrier waving flags.
Residents use identity cards at border, while visitors undergo entry-exit checks at airport or ferry.

1 / 3