Border controls reinvented: EU introduces digital EES system!

Border controls reinvented: EU introduces digital EES system!

The European Union plans to introduce a new entry control system known as EES (entry/exit system). This system will be launched onNovember 10, 2024commissioned, as confirmed by the EU Commissioner for Home Affairs, Ylva Johansson. schengenvisum.info reports that The introduction of the EES is finally in sight after several delays due, among other things, to technical problems. The start was originally planned for 2022, but there were delays in the installation of the automatic border crossings.

The EES replaces the usual manual stamping in passports and records data on the entry and exit of third-country nationals at the external borders of the Schengen states, including citizens of Ukraine. visitukraine.today describes that The main functions of the EES include the automatic recording of date and place of entry as well as biometric data such as fingerprints and facial images.

Aims and benefits of the EES

A key objective of the EES is to combat document forgery, identity fraud and violations of migration law. Storing travel history information also enables improved monitoring of permitted length of stay of up to 90 days within 180 days. Digital control means that the entry requirements for Ukrainian citizens remain unchanged, but the entire process is made more efficient.

Last but not least, the EES promises to modernize border management and identify travelers who may stay longer. Benefits for the travelers themselves include faster passport controls, while there is the need for biometric capture. The data collected is stored for three to five years, depending on the type of registration. However, experts have already expressed concerns that the new system could lead to longer waiting times at borders during peak times.

Monitoring and transparency

As part of the new regulations, the regulations for travelers entering the Schengen area will also be restructured. Travelers must provide personal data when crossing borders, which will be stored in a central EU database. This affects all non-EU citizens, including UK citizens traveling for short stays. Some groups, such as nationals of Andorra, Monaco, San Marino and the Vatican City, are exempt from registration in the EES.

Additionally, Cyprus plans to join the Schengen area next year, which is likely to further reinforce the dynamic changes to border policy in Europe. While manual stamping continues in Cyprus, most other Schengen countries are already using EES automated technology to make border crossings more efficient and ensure that traveler data is recorded accurately.

Overall, the EES is intended to increase security and streamline border processes to collect more accurate data on travelers. With this innovative solution, the EU wants to respond to the need for more transparency and control in international travel.