The EU’s new Entry/Exit System.

Challenges at the EU’s external borders

The European Union is facing increasing challenges in managing its borders. The number of people crossing into and out of the Schengen Area is on the rise, leading to longer wait times at border controls. Additionally, the current system struggles to track how long non-EU citizens stay within the area, making it difficult to identify overstayers. These issues not only impact border efficiency but also pose security risks.

Introducing the Entry/Exit System (EES)

To address the border managing problems, the European Commission is implementing a new Entry/Exit System (EES). This automated system will register non-EU citizens entering the Schengen Area for short stays. It’s expected to launch in November 2024, though the EU institutions and Member States have not confirmed this yet.

Benefits of the EES

The Entry/Exit System (EES) is designed to enhance border security and efficiency within the Schengen Area. By digitally recording entry and exit stamps for non-EU citizens, the EES will help to prevent overstays, combat terrorism, and streamline border checks. This system will also provide valuable data for law enforcement agencies to investigate criminal activities.

How the Entry/Exit System works

The Entry/Exit System (EES) applies to non-EU citizens traveling to the Schengen Area for short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. When entering a country using the EES, travelers will have their biometric data (fingerprints and facial image) collected and stored in the system. This information, along with passport details and travel history, will be used for border control and security purposes.

Data security with the EES

The EES data will be accessible to authorities responsible for border control, visa issuance, and law enforcement within EU member states. Europol will also have access to the system for criminal investigations. To protect personal information, strict rules govern data sharing with other countries and international organizations. Importantly, airlines and other carriers can only verify visa information and are not allowed to access personal data stored in the EES.

Potential challenges for the EES

The upcoming implementation of the EES has raised concerns about potential disruptions and delays, particularly for UK travellers. These delays could have a knock-on effect on freight transport, and lead to supply chain disruption in the UK. While preparations are underway, businesses should be prepared for possible disruptions.

More information on the EU Entry/Exit System

You can consult the following webpages for more information on the EES:

• Impact Assessment Report on the establishment of an EU Entry/Exit System
• Regulation (EU) 2017/2226
• EES information brochure of the European Commission
• European Union: New requirements to travel to Europe
• UK Government: EU Entry/Exit System Guidance

Advice and support

Do you need help regarding the EU Entry/Exit System? Gaston Schul’s Consultancy & Advisory services are here to assist.