Border Control in Estonia: Recent Denials Highlight Importance of Legal Entry

Border checkpoint "Narva-1" in Estonia, located on the border with Russia, witnessed a familiar scene last weekend as over 14 foreigners were denied entry into the country due to lack of legal grounds for crossing the Estonian border.

The Idavere Prefecture stated that among the rejected individuals were 5 Israelis, 3 each from Moldova and Russia, as well as 1 citizen from Peru, Ukraine, and Colombia. These figures are further supported by data from the Lyunask Prefecture, where over the weekend, 16 Moldovan citizens and two Russians were also denied entry.

The reasons for refusal of entry varied. However, the most commonly cited reasons included lack of necessary documents for entry, unclear purposes of travel, or established threats to public order or the country's security during interviews.

The authorities took strict measures, and all denied foreigners were prohibited from entering Estonia, after which they were sent back to Russia.

In response to these events, the Chief of the Border Guard Department of the Police and Border Guard Board, Veiko Kommusaar, emphasized that Moldovan citizens are increasingly attempting "stamp tourism," trying to enter Estonia without specific purposes or necessary documents.

The head of the Narva border checkpoint, Marek Liiva, confirmed this information, emphasizing the importance of adhering to laws and security measures in the context of contemporary challenges and threats.

These incidents serve as a reminder of the necessity of strict border control and adherence to all necessary rules and procedures when entering the country. Security and order must remain a priority for all states, especially in the face of changing geopolitical conditions.