EU postpones introduction of biometric border control system

The European Union is again postponing the introduction of a biometric entry and exit screening system (EES) for citizens of non-member countries. It was planned to be operational from November 10, 2024. But Germany, France and the Netherlands said their border systems were technically unprepared, forcing the EU to reconsider the timing of the innovation.

Entry/Exit System (EES) is a new entry and exit verification system that automates the process of registering the data of non-EU citizens. Instead of the usual passport stamp, they will have to undergo a biometric check involving fingerprinting and facial scanning. This information will be linked to the traveler’s passport to create a digital record. Thanks to it, the process of crossing borders in the future will be greatly accelerated.

EES will be applied at all external borders of the Schengen area, including airports, road, rail and sea crossings. For the first time, the innovation will affect British citizens, who will also have to undergo biometric checks when entering the Union, including Spain.

The main reason for the delay was a mismatch between the technical capabilities of EU countries. Germany, France and the Netherlands, which handle about 40% of passenger traffic at the Union’s external borders, said the system provided by the EU-Lisa agency lacked stability and functionality. 

As noted by the European Commissioner for Home Affairs, Ylva Johansson, the November 10 date is no longer relevant and a new timetable for the implementation of EES has not yet been determined. The possibility of a phased launch of the system as member states are ready is being discussed.

Until the implementation of the biometric entry verification system, travelers heading to the EU will go through the usual passport control. But innovation is imminent, so travelers planning trips to Spain should be prepared for the changes.

The Entry/Exit System should greatly improve security and control at borders, and minimize cases of illegal entry and falsification. But as repeated delays show, the development and implementation of such a large-scale IT solution requires thorough preparation and testing.

 

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