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Smart Border Austria – Current Developments and Timeline for Customs Digitalization
Status: 23 September 2026

Digitalized border crossing – On-site instructions:

Here you will find step-by-step instructions on how to cross the border using the digitalized system. On-site instructions (PDF, 566 KB)

Discontinuation of the Paper-Based Routing Slip Procedure

As of 16 September 2026, the previous paper-based routing slip procedure was discontinued. Since this date, participation in the Smart Border Austria processes for cross-border freight transport has been mandatory.

Digitalization of Border Customs Offices

With the digitalisation of the border customs offices, the previous border clearance procedures for imports, exports and transit have been discontinued, together with the paper-based routing slip procedure. The transition to the exclusive use of Smart Border Austria's digital processes has therefore been completed.

Digitized border crossing (Border Crossing Light) at the border customs offices

The digitalised border crossing using Border Crossing Light is available at the following border customs offices from the dates indicated:

Regular Operations

Full-scale regular operations for the Smart Border Austria processes are scheduled to start on 1 October 2026.

Situation at Hohenems Customs Office (Entry Lane)

The entry lane at the Hohenems border customs office is still under development by the Province of Vorarlberg. Implementation is currently expected in the second quarter of 2027.

Until then, the border crossing can be processed using the manual procedure, i.e. by scanning the border customs office entry document, by staff members of the Austrian Customs Office.