Digital Entry System for Non-EU Citizens Set for Launch in October by EU - EU will initiate an electronic entry system for non-EU citizens in October
The European Union (EU) is set to launch the Entry-Exit System (EES) for third-country nationals in October, marking a significant step towards enhancing border security and combating illegal immigration. This digital system, designed to replace the traditional passport stamp method, aims to combat cross-border crime and terrorism by creating a centralized, automated EU/Schengen-wide database that records the biometric data (fingerprints and facial images) and travel details of third-country nationals entering or leaving the Schengen Area [1][2][4].
The EES will be used by all EU countries, excluding Ireland and Cyprus, as well as Norway, Iceland, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein. By ensuring that all non-EU visitors’ entry and exit information is accurately recorded and accessible across member states, EES facilitates the detection and prevention of illegal immigration and security threats, thus contributing to safer and more efficient border management [2][3].
Regarding concerns about border wait times, while EES is expected to speed up identity verification and streamline processing, there are fears it may initially cause delays during implementation, as biometric data collection and system registration take time. For example, UK travel infrastructure expects that EES checks could add about five minutes to journey times at some points. However, investments in kiosks and agents aim to minimize this impact and make registration as smooth as possible [3]. The rollout is gradual over six months starting October 2025, so actual impact on wait times may vary by country and border crossing [2].
EU Commissioner Magnus Brunner announced that travelers will be informed about the system through "information campaigns" at airports and border crossings before its introduction. The transition period for member states, travelers, and businesses to adapt to the new system is six months [5].
Initially planned for implementation in November last year, the EES was postponed at short notice. However, the full implementation of the system is expected after six months [6]. The system is intended to improve the EU's ability to manage the entry and exit of third-country nationals, and is part of the EU's efforts to enhance border security and combat illegal immigration [7].
By accurately recording and sharing biometric data for facial or fingerprint recognition, the EES is expected to contribute to the prevention and detection of potential security threats at EU borders, as well as speed up data access, helping to combat cross-border crime and terrorism [1][2][4]. The system is also expected to aid in the detection of overstays and the enforcement of entry bans, further bolstering border security [3].
In conclusion, the EU's Electronic Entry-Exit System (EES) represents a significant advancement in border security measures, aiming to combat crime and terrorism through improved biometric tracking and data sharing across Schengen and associated countries. Efforts are underway to mitigate its potential to increase border wait times during its initial implementation phase. The EES is set to launch in October 2025, and travelers will be informed about the system through "information campaigns" at airports and border crossings before its introduction.
- The European Union's policy-and-legislation on external relations, including the launch of the Entry-Exit System (EES), highlights a strong focus on politics related to general-news topics such as border security, illegal immigration, cross-border crime, and terrorism.
- The digital Entry-Exit System (EES) and its external relations implications are not limited to the EU alone, as it will be implemented by participating Schengen Area countries, Norway, Iceland, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein, signifying a broadening of international politics in the realm of border security and management.
