New border control system in the European Union

24-08-24

On November 10, 2024, the European Union will implement the Entry-Exit System (EES), a measure that will modernize the management of its external borders. This system will register all travelers from non-EU countries entering the Schengen area for short periods of up to 90 days. The EES will replace the current passport stamping system, storing information such as name, biometric data and entry and exit details in a central database.

The main objective of the EES is to improve border security, combat identity fraud and ensure compliance with the laws of stay in the region. By collecting biometric data, authorities will be able to accurately identify overstayers. This system will affect approximately 700 million people annually and will enable real-time information exchange between member countries, ensuring that border authorities have the right data at the right time.

The registration process will be carried out through an online form that travelers will be required to complete prior to arrival. The information provided will be stored for three years, which will facilitate the transit of frequent passengers, avoiding the need to complete forms at each entry or exit.

This new system is part of a package of measures the EU is implementing to strengthen its borders. From the first half of 2025, it will be joined by the European Travel Information and Authorization System (Etias), which will require prior travel authorization for citizens of visa-exempt countries.

The implementation of the EES marks a significant step towards the modernization of European borders, improving both security and efficiency in the management of migratory flows. The authorities hope that this measure will allow for a more rigorous and effective control, while guaranteeing the protection of personal data and the privacy of travelers.

This development will not only have a direct impact on security, but will also facilitate travel, reducing waiting times at borders and improving the passenger experience. In short, the EES represents a coordinated effort by the European Union to adapt to the needs of an increasingly interconnected world, where security and mobility must go hand in hand.

This system will not only strengthen security at the EU's external borders, but will also contribute to the fight against terrorism and organized crime by preventing access to individuals who pose a threat. It will also allow more precise control over migratory flows, facilitating the identification of possible violators of immigration laws.

In terms of privacy, the EU has assured that the EES will comply with the strictest data protection standards, ensuring that travelers' information is handled securely and responsibly. In addition, the system will be subject to constant monitoring to prevent any abuse or misuse of the information collected.

The launch of the EES comes at a critical time for the European Union, which faces significant security and migration challenges. With the implementation of this system, it is hoped that the region will be better prepared to meet these challenges, while ensuring that its borders remain accessible and secure for legitimate travelers.

The EES is ultimately a key tool in the EU's strategy to maintain security and stability in the region, while facilitating the transit of people within and across its borders. The combination of advanced technology and more efficient border management promises to transform the way the European Union handles the movement of people within its territory.

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