Brussels maintains November 10 for the automated entry system

04-10-24

The European Commission has confirmed that November 10 remains the planned date for the entry into force of the new automated entry system (Entry/Exit System, EES) for the control of the European Union's external borders. However, Brussels does not rule out possible delays due to the technical and organizational complexity involved in its implementation.

What is the EES system?

The EES is a system designed to automatically register the entry and exit of third country travelers crossing the external borders of the Schengen area. This new system aims to improve border control by replacing manual passport stamps with a digital register that will allow for more efficient and secure control of migratory flows.

The automated system will collect biometric data, such as fingerprints and facial photographs, which will allow for better identification of travelers. In addition, this digital registration will reduce the risk of document fraud and allow for more accurate tracking of stays in the Schengen zone.

Although November 10 remains the official date for the launch of the EES, European authorities have acknowledged the possibility of delays. The implementation of the system requires member states to adapt their border infrastructures and technological systems, which has raised concerns in several countries.

The EES also brings with it an additional challenge for airports and other points of entry, as they will need to manage the flow of passengers more efficiently to avoid long queues and waiting times, especially during the biometric enrollment process. This challenge has led some tourism stakeholders to call for a longer adaptation period.

The new EES system will have a direct impact on travelers entering or leaving the Schengen area, as it will change the way passports and stay times are controlled. Although in the long term the automated system is expected to streamline border procedures, in its initial phase it could cause delays and complications at entry points.

The tourism industry is watching the possible effects of the EES, as any failure in its implementation could affect the flow of tourists to European Union countries, raising concerns at a key moment of economic recovery after the pandemic.