With Smart Border Austria, customs processing between Austria, Switzerland and Liechtenstein is fundamentally digitalized: paper-based processes (customs slips) are replaced by mandatory digital pre-notification. This enables faster procedures, greater transparency and fewer bottlenecks at the border.
The transition to Smart Border Austria simultaneously creates new requirements for companies, processes and data quality.
Smart Border Austria: Digitalization at the border is advancing
The transition to Smart Border Austria is already underway: Step by step, additional border customs posts and customs processes are being integrated into digital processing. Since early August, further important milestones have been implemented – with concrete changes for companies, freight forwarders and drivers.
Lustenau, Höchst and Mäder digital as of August 3rd
- As of August 3, 2026, goods movements via the border customs posts Lustenau, Höchst and Mäder are fundamentally processed through the Smart Border Austria procedures.
- In Höchst and Mäder, camera recognition at the border customs post is not yet available. The corresponding entry and exit certificates or the Border Transaction Number (BTN) must therefore be presented to customs officials for scanning. Exceptions and transition regulations continue to apply for certain clearance types.
- Until August 31, 2026, customs slips from Wolfurt are still possible at all border posts, and in Lustenau even until September 7!
Rolling Corridor: License Plate Recognition Activated
- Automation is also progressing with the "Rolling Corridor – Exit". License plate recognition on the motorway has been installed but is currently deactivated due to technical issues.
- In Tisis, processing is already automated via cameras, while in Mäder and Höchst at the border customs post, scanning by customs officials continues to be required.
- Important: The BTN must continue to be carried by the driver despite automated license plate recognition.
Meiningen goes digital on August 17th
- Meiningen will be converted on August 17, 2026, after which customs slips will no longer be possible
Hohenems goes digital on September 8th
- Customs slips are possible until September 7