The Entry/Exit System (EES) is an advanced IT system that will digitally record the entries and exits of non-EU nationals travelling to 29 European countries for short stays. It will register biometric data, such as fingerprints, facial images, and other travel information. The EES aims to improve the management of external borders, help prevent irregular immigration, identify overstayers, and reduce identity fraud. Relevant national authorities will have real-time access to information, and automated border checks will be increased. According to the European Commission, this new system will make travelling "smoother and safer for all".

From 12 October onwards, the EES will be progressively rolled out at the external borders of 29 European countries, over a period of six months. This period will allow for intervention if technical problems arise. After one month, 10% of border crossings must be registered, after three months, 35%, and after six months, all travelers from non-EU countries must be registered via the system. At the end of the progressive period, the EES will be fully deployed at all border crossing points.

The system's implementation has been postponed several times, most recently last October, as three EU Member States (Germany, France, and the Netherlands) were not yet ready to implement it. In Belgium, the House of Representatives gave the green light in March 2023. 

In the coming months, the European Commission, along with European Union Agency for the Operational Management of Large-Scale IT Systems in the Area of Freedom, Security and Justice (eu-LISA), will keep working closely with European countries using the EES to ensure a smooth deployment of the system. As the launch date approaches, travelers can expect to see information campaigns and awareness-raising activities at border crossing points, including airports across the European countries using the EES, as well as at consulates in third countries.

For more information, read the Commission Decision regarding the launch date of the start of the Entry/Exit System.

Photo credits: eu-LISA