EU introduces digital border control system, phasing out passport stamps
The European Union (EU) is set to launch its new electronic border system, known as the Entry/Exit System (EES), on October 12, 2022, after several delays[1][2][3]. The system aims to digitize the entry and exit of non-EU citizens and prevent irregular movements, while facilitating the entry and exit of EU citizens who have the right to travel[4].
The EES will be gradually implemented over six months, with full implementation expected by April 10, 2026[1][2]. The phased rollout requires that after one month, 10% of border crossings are registered, increasing to 35% after three months, and full use by all travelers from outside the EU after six months[1][2].
Initially, some countries like Germany, France, and the Netherlands were not ready for the new system's implementation, causing the initial schedule to be delayed[1][3]. The system will replace manual passport stamping with automated digital controls, although stamps will still be used during the transition period[1][3].
The EES will involve 29 countries in the Schengen area, not just EU member states. These 29 countries include the 25 EU member states, as well as Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland[5]. The system is designed to record biometric data (fingerprints, facial scans) and travel information of non-EU nationals entering or leaving the Schengen Area, thereby improving identification of overstayers and reducing identity fraud[1][2].
The EU Commissioner responsible for this initiative is Magnus Brunner[3]. The new system is expected to help identify those who overstay their temporary residence, reduce document and identity fraud, and increase security in the EU[6]. The current manual passport stamping procedure will become obsolete as the EES is implemented[6].
References:
[1] EU Commission - Entry/Exit System (EES) [2] European Parliament - Entry/Exit System (EES) [3] European Commissioner for Home Affairs - Magnus Brunner [4] European Parliament - Factsheet: Entry/Exit System (EES) [5] European Commission - Schengen Area [6] European Union - Border and Coast Guard Agency - Entry/Exit System (EES)
The Entry/Exit System (EES), launching on October 12, 2022, will digitize the entry and exit of non-EU citizens and replace manual passport stamping with automated digital controls, incorporating technology in border control. Over a six-month period, the EES will gradually implement biometric data recording (fingerprints, facial scans) for non-EU nationals in the Schengen Area, designed to improve identification of overstayers and reduce identity fraud.
