Switzerland (24 Heures, Fre) – The next step in Switzerland’s gradual move into the Schengen region comes 1 December, when passport controls at road borders will end, although customs officials point out that checks for merchandise will continue.

Most drivers are unlikely to notice the change, with passport controls in recent months sharply reduced. A more significant and complex change comes in March 2009 when passport controls at airports for people going to and coming from Schengen Agreement countries will end.

24 Heures quotes Philippe Roy, Cointrin Airport spokesman, as saying that it’s a mind-bending exercise to work out because a European security agreement comes into play at the same time, and Schengen country passengers will be sorted out from non-Schengen country travelers. Given that the UK and Ireland are not members of the Schengen Agreement, the task will not be easy.