Spain imposes border controls against Italy as row over Ceuta migrant influx intensifies

What changed

The Spanish Ministry of the Interior has issued Order INT/1033/2026, which started on 8 October 2026. This order extends the temporary return of border controls at Spain's internal air and sea borders for people travelling from Italy. This measure, which continues earlier extensions, covers passenger flights and maritime links until 22 October 2026. It suggests that the Spanish authorities believe there are still serious threats to public order and internal security, meaning checks are still needed at borders that would normally be open under the Schengen Agreement.

What changed

The United States and the Hellenic Republic held their sixth Strategic Dialogue on 7 October 2026, where they confirmed their wide-ranging relationship. As part of these discussions, both countries agreed to improve cooperation in law enforcement and counter-terrorism. They specifically mentioned addressing the challenge of irregular migration. This confirms their ongoing efforts to manage and fight against irregular border crossings and the criminal activities linked to them.

What changed

Hong Kong's Immigration Department (ImmD) has started offering enrolment for a new automated clearance service called "collaborative inspection". This marks the official launch of a new combined immigration-clearance system being developed for the redeveloped Huanggang Port, which is on the boundary between Hong Kong and Shenzhen. The ImmD announced on 6 October 2026 that eligible Hong Kong residents can enrol immediately using its HK e-Channel mobile application. There will also be other ways to enrol at Huanggang Port.

What changed

The U.S. Administration for Children and Families (ACF) Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) has proposed significant revisions to its health documentation forms for unaccompanied alien children, including consolidating existing forms and enhancing data quality. Crucially, the updated request also formalises the sharing of health information, such as active diagnoses, medications, and accommodations, with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) when a child in ORR custody is identified for repatriation. These changes aim to improve continuity of care, reduce administrative burden, and align with ORR requirements, with public comments invited until 4 November 2026.