The European Union has introduced a new Entry/Exit System (EES) aimed at enhancing border security and easing the travel process for non-EU nationals. This system will affect travelers at all EU airports and ports starting from this Friday. Britons will now bypass the traditional passport stamp as the EU phases in a digital biometric check.
Understanding the New EU Entry System
The Entry/Exit System mandates biometric checks, such as fingerprint scans and facial recognition, for non-EU travelers entering the Schengen Area. Critically, children under 12 will not be subjected to fingerprinting. This system allows for tracking entry and exit, thereby making it easier to identify overstayed visas.
How the EES Affects Travelers
- Travelers will undergo biometric checks upon entering and exiting Schengen countries.
- Once registered, future entries will be expedited as biometrics will merely need scanning.
- The digital record will remain valid for three years.
Registration will occur at arrival in Schengen destinations, while travelers using Eurostar or Eurotunnel must register before departing the UK. Cruise travelers disembarking for the Schengen area may also need to register, depending on their travel plans.
Potential Delays and Concerns
Despite the benefits, there are potential concerns about delays. Many airports have had to manage both the old and new systems, leading to long wait times. Reports indicate that travelers have already experienced multi-hour waits, raising alarms that the full implementation may cause further issues initially.
Why the EES Was Introduced
The primary goal of the EES is to provide a comprehensive record of entrants and exits from the Schengen Area. This will combat visa overstays and enhance document oversight. Moreover, it aims to improve security through better real-time information and automated processes.
Countries Involved in the EES
The EES will be implemented in the following Schengen countries:
| Countries |
|---|
| Austria |
| Belgium |
| Bulgaria |
| Croatia |
| Czech Republic |
| Denmark |
| Estonia |
| Finland |
| France |
| Germany |
| Greece |
| Hungary |
| Iceland |
| Italy |
| Latvia |
| Liechtenstein |
| Lithuania |
| Luxembourg |
| Malta |
| Netherlands |
| Norway |
| Poland |
| Portugal |
| Romania |
| Slovakia |
| Slovenia |
| Spain |
| Sweden |
| Switzerland |
It is important to note that neither Ireland nor Cyprus is included in the Schengen Area; thus, the EES does not apply to travel involving these countries.
As the EU rolls out this system, travelers should prepare for initial disruptions but benefit from an ultimately smoother entry process into the Schengen Area.
