The EU is progressing on the Entry-Exit System (EES) rollout, although specifics are still unclear. The rollout will take 180 days to prevent congestion at borders. British travelers may get access to e-gates after negotiations, but details remain vague. Full implementation is expected by 2025, aiming for increased efficiency and biometric data collection.
The European Union is edging closer to launching its biometric border system, known as the Entry-Exit System (EES). While the exact rollout date remains uncertain, recent developments have caused quite a buzz. Notably, there’s still some ambiguity surrounding whether British passport holders will be allowed to use automated border control gates designed for EU travelers, despite some discussions held between the UK and EU representatives.
In a significant step forward, the European Parliament and the Council struck a deal to implement the EES over a six-month period. This staggered approach aims to prevent potential technical hiccups and long queues that could come with a simultaneous launch across all countries. Before the system is officially adopted, it still requires final approval from both legislative bodies, including a vote from the Civil Liberties Committee.
An interesting update is the revised timeline for traveler registrations. Under the new plan, by the 30th day post-EES launch, 10% of border crossings must be logged, a shift from the original first-day target. After three months, the goal is to record 35% of all crossings. Assita Kanko, rapporteur and Belgian MEP, mentioned a commitment to a realistic timetable to ensure a smooth rollout. “We worked on the new law at top speed and secured a more realistic launch timetable,” Kanko said.
The new agreement also incorporates a buffer, permitting EU nations to temporarily halt the EES if any complications arise during implementation. Countries can still opt for an immediate rollout if they feel prepared. The EU introduced this phased rollout concept after previous delays; the system was initially due to begin back in November 2023 but hit several roadblocks. After multiple member states declared unpreparedness, the launch is now tentatively set for 2025, potentially in October.
Concerns about the readiness of the EES central computer system, managed by EU-LISA, also contributed to moving the date. Once introduced, the EES will require third-country nationals, including British citizens, to provide fingerprints, facial photos, and other personal data. This will mark the first systematic collection of biometric data at EU external borders, replacing the traditional stamp-in-passport method.
Meanwhile, British travelers find themselves in a bit of a limbo. Recently, the UK announced a preliminary agreement allowing Brits to potentially access electronic gates when deemed suitable. This setup could ease border congestion, which has been a growing concern for UK travelers wanting to visit Europe. However, the particulars of this arrangement remain vague and still need clarity.
Currently, there are two options being explored: creating special gates for third-country nationals, akin to those seen in Rome, or permitting British citizens to use the existing e-gates designed for EU nationals. Sarah Jones, head of industry, clarified that EU countries will determine their own policies regarding gate access for Britons. Thus far, it’s uncertain how many countries will opt to allow this access.
Post-Brexit, the UK negotiated for its citizens to be considered ‘visa-exempt third-country nationals.’ This means that EU border officials must run checks and stamp passports for British arrivals. With the EES fully operational, British travelers could bypass redundancies during checks as their arrivals and departures would be logged in a shared database.
Additionally, the upcoming European Travel Information System (ETIAS) will further streamline travel by requiring non-EU nationals to secure travel pre-authorization before entering the Schengen area, enhancing border management as a whole.
In conclusion, the EU’s movement towards implementing the Entry-Exit System is a significant step in modernizing border control processes, although uncertainty remains, particularly for British travelers. The phased rollout over 180 days aims to ensure a smoother implementation. While key agreements are in place, details about British access to automated border gates are still unclear. These changes signal a new era in biometric border management across Europe.
Original Source: www.biometricupdate.com
