EU announces commencement date for biometric passport checks under the EES system
Europe Introduces New Travel Systems for Enhanced Border Control
The European Union is set to introduce two new travel systems aimed at enhancing border security and digitizing travellers' entry and exit dates from the Schengen zone. The Entry/Exit System (EES) and the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) are scheduled to commence in the coming years.
The Entry/Exit System (EES) for EU border control is scheduled to begin its phased rollout starting October 12, 2025, with full operational coverage across all Schengen borders expected by April 10, 2026. This system will record biometric data such as fingerprints and facial images, replacing the traditional passport stamp process and enhancing the tracking of non-EU nationals entering and leaving the Schengen Area[1][2][3][5].
In parallel, the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) is expected to launch later, around late 2026. Unlike a visa, ETIAS is an online travel authorization required for visa-exempt travelers from countries like the United States, Canada, and Australia. It involves applying ahead of travel, paying a fee (€20), and once approved, the authorization is valid for three years or until the passport expires. The system aims to reinforce security by pre-screening travelers before arrival[3].
The phased approach for EES provides flexibility to avoid overwhelming border systems during the transition, with member states able to suspend EES temporarily at busy points[2][5]. ETIAS will add an additional layer of pre-travel screening to complement EES once operational[3].
Travelers should prepare for biometric data collection at EU borders starting October 2025, and starting in late 2026, visa-exempt travelers will need to obtain ETIAS authorization before traveling to the EU.
Key Details:
| System | Start Date | Full Implementation | Key Details | |----------------|-----------------------|-------------------------|------------------------------------| | EES | October 12, 2025 | April 10, 2026 | Biometric border checks, phased rollout, replaces passport stamping | | ETIAS | Expected late 2026 | - | Online pre-travel authorization for visa-exempt travelers, valid 3 years |
The EES system is only mandatory for those traveling on a non-EU passport. Anyone traveling to the EU with a visa is not required to get an ETIAS authorisation. ETIAS will affect tourists and those making short visits, including family visits. The EES involves providing fingerprints and a facial scan for enhanced passport checks. The ETIAS system is similar to the US Esta visa or the UK's new ETA.
It's important to note that under 18s and over 70s are exempt from the ETIAS fee, which is €20. Second-home owners who do not have a visa will be required to have an ETIAS authorisation[1]. Exemptions from the EES system apply to non-EU citizens who are residents of an EU or Schengen zone country[4].
There had been concerns about readiness, especially at the busy UK-France crossing. However, the European Commission has emphasized its commitment to ensuring a smooth transition and addressing any potential issues that may arise during the implementation of these new systems[2][5].
[1] European Commission. (n.d.). ETIAS. Retrieved from https://ec.europa.eu/home-affairs/what-we-do/policies/borders-and-visas/etias_en [2] European Commission. (2023). EES and ETIAS. Retrieved from https://ec.europa.eu/home-affairs/what-we-do/policies/borders-and-visas/ees-and-etias_en [3] European Commission. (n.d.). EES. Retrieved from https://ec.europa.eu/home-affairs/what-we-do/policies/borders-and-visas/ees_en [4] European Commission. (n.d.). Exemptions. Retrieved from https://ec.europa.eu/home-affairs/what-we-do/policies/borders-and-visas/etias_en#exemptions [5] European Commission. (2023). EES and ETIAS: Frequently asked questions. Retrieved from https://ec.europa.eu/home-affairs/what-we-do/policies/borders-and-visas/ees-and-etias_en/frequently-asked-questions_en
- The Entry/Exit System (EES) and European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) are innovative examples of how technology is being employed to enhance general-news areas, such as border control within the European Union.
- With the implementation of the Entry/Exit System (EES) and European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS), the travel sector is being significantly transformed, leveraging technology to optimize border control and security processes.
