The European Union’s new Entry Exit System is being pushed into 2025, but there’s no firm date for it be brought into law.
The EU was set to rollout the new border control program on 10NOV, 2024, but European Commission officials say they’re now looking at a “phased approach.”
The new EES program and its companion system, the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS), will electronically register the time and place of entry and exit of non-EU nationals, and calculate the duration of their authorized stay, Seatrade Cruise News reports.
“This will replace the obligation to stamp the passports of third-country nationals which is applicable to all EU member states. The technology is set to enhance border security and monitor overstayers across Europe.”
The EES is part of the wider ETIAS, which will require non-EU nationals to pay €7 (CAD $9.84) per person to visit most European countries. The visa permits non-EU citizens to stay in the EU and Schengen zone for 90 days. Once a traveller has had their visa approved, they do not need to apply again for three years.
“To apply, travellers will have to complete an online application before they go and pay the fee if they are between 18 and 70 years old."
The official European Union EES site says that, once the system is up and running, travellers will have to provide their personal data.
“Passport control officers will scan your fingerprints or take a photo of your face. This information will be recorded in a digital file. Your passport (biometric or non-biometric) will not be stamped.”
Once both programs are active, “travellers from visa-exempt countries must get electronic authorization before entering the Schengen Area. This system is designed to improve security and simplify border checks,” according to etias.com.
The EES was supposed to go live last month but it was postponed after several EU member countries said the technology wouldn’t be ready.
