This Inform provides information on current national legislation and practices for the collection and processing of biometric data of third-country nationals in 24 EMN Member Countries and three EMN Observer Countries (Norway, Serbia and Ukraine) in accordance with national and European law requirements. 

Belgium has postponed the registration of biometric data for third-country nationals entering the Schengen area. The measure, announced by the Interior Minister Bernard Quintin and Minister of Asylum and Migration Anneleen Van Bossuyt, follows significant queues and operational disruptions at Brussels Airport. The decision affects the gradual implementation of the European Entry/Exit System (EES) and aims to ensure border checks can be conducted under acceptable conditions for passengers.