EU Introduces Biometric Entry/Exit System for Non-EU Travellers

Strategic Insights -

From October 12, all non-EU citizens, including British visitors, will start to undergo biometric checks at the EU's external borders as part of the new Entry/Exit System (EES) to replace passport stamps. The system will require travellers to register their fingerprints, facial images, and personal details when they first enter the Schengen area. The EES will be gradually introduced, with full implementation by April 2026, and aims to prevent illegal migration, combat identity fraud, and monitor overstayers.

Key Takeaways:

  • The EU's new biometric entry-check system, EES, will require non-EU citizens to register their fingerprints, facial images, and personal details at border crossings.
  • The system will replace passport stamps and create digital records linking a travel document to a person's identity using biometrics.
  • Children under 12 will need to be registered under EES but will only have their photograph taken.
  • Travellers do not have to pay for EES, but those arriving in the Schengen area for the first time will need to scan their passports and register their biometric data.
  • Subsequent journeys will only require facial biometric verification for non-EU citizens.
  • The system will monitor whether people are sticking to the EU's up-to-90 days stay within any 180-day period rule.

Statistics:

  • By April 2026, the EU aims to have fully implemented the EES system at all border crossings.
  • Children under 12 will have their photograph taken but not their fingerprints or facial scan.
  • Non-EU citizens will undergo biometric checks at international airports, ports, train terminals, and road border crossings in the Schengen area.
  • The new system will require biometric checks for all non-EU citizens, including British visitors, starting from October 2023.
  • The system will also monitor overstayers and prevent illegal migration.

Sources:

  • James Davey, "EU's new biometric entry-check system for non-EU travellers starts operations", https://www.reuters.com/world/eu-s-new-biometric-entry-check-system-for-non-eu-travellers-starts-operations-2023-10-12
  • DM, "European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) to be introduced in late 2026", https://link to the full-text article