Nine EU Countries Delay EES Border Checks Amid Implementation Challenges
Written with artificial intelligence.
Nine EU nations, including popular tourist destinations like France and Greece, are postponing the rollout of fingerprinting for non-EU citizens at border checks. This delay is aimed at easing congestion at airports during peak travel times, particularly in light of upcoming major events such as the 2024 Olympics.
Delayed Implementation of EES
Nine EU countries are delaying the full implementation of the Entry-Exit System (EES), which was originally scheduled to be fully operational on September 6. Countries such as France, Greece, Portugal, and Italy have requested additional time to adapt to the new border controls designed to include fingerprinting for non-EU citizens. Other nations involved in the delay include Germany, Malta, the Netherlands, Switzerland, and Belgium, while Spain has begun full implementation despite facing initial issues.
Background of the EES
The EES, first adopted by the EU in 2017 and launched last October, aims to enhance border security and streamline the entry process. The system has reportedly registered around 200 million entries and detected 70,000 individuals who attempted to enter the Schengen area illegally, including those without proper visas or who overstayed their allowed duration. While fingerprinting and facial recognition have begun in major hubs like Brussels and Amsterdam, smaller airports are lagging in their implementation.
Challenges and Consequences
The delays are not uniform across the nine countries, with some areas already adopting biometric measures. However, there are reports of inadequate facilities, particularly in smaller airports, which struggle to accommodate the influx of travelers. For example, one regional airport reported handling 3,000 passengers in peak times with only four biometric booths available. The International Air Transport Association has expressed concerns over passenger delays and missed connections due to the slow rollout.
Future Developments
The EU is moving forward with the development of a pre-authorisation app, “Travel to Europe,” which will allow travelers to register their facial images and passport details prior to arrival. Currently, this service is operational in Sweden and Portugal, with plans to expand to seven countries soon. As implementation continues, travelers are advised to stay informed about the status of the EES and potential impacts on their travel plans.