The European Union has agreed to launch the Entry/Exit System (EES), a digital border control system for short-term travelers, after years of delays caused by technical issues. This system, which is designed to modernize border controls at the EU’s external borders, will gradually be introduced later this year.
The decision, made by EU interior ministers in Brussels, allows member states to either implement the system all at once or in phases over a six-month transition period. The full implementation is expected to occur by autumn, though no exact date has been set.
This phased approach, which was not part of the original plan, aims to overcome previous delays and ensure a smoother rollout across the EU. Poland, which currently holds the EU’s rotating presidency, will lead the negotiations with the European Parliament to finalize the legislation.
What is the Entry/Exit System?
The Entry/Exit System (EES) aims to replace the traditional manual stamping of passports with an automated process for travelers coming to the EU for short stays of up to 90 days. The system, which has been in development since 2016, will apply to non-EU citizens visiting the Schengen Area.
Once in place, travelers will provide their passports, have their photograph taken, and submit fingerprints electronically. The system will record all entries and exits from the Schengen Area, helping authorities combat visa overstays and identity fraud.
The system will apply to all EU member states except Cyprus and Ireland, as well as Schengen-associated countries, including Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland. Cyprus and Ireland will continue to manually stamp passports for travelers.
The new system will provide EU member states with better tools to control immigration, ensure more secure borders, and streamline the travel process for legitimate visitors. The transition to this digital system is expected to improve overall security while facilitating smoother travel across the Schengen Area.