Biometric border controls: EES system starts and changes everything!

Biometric border controls: EES system starts and changes everything!

The European Union implements a new entry and exit system (EES) that brings essential changes for travelers from third countries. From the 10. November 2024 the EES is put into operation, as the EU Commissioner for the Interior, Ylva Johansson , confirmed during her visit to EU-Lisa. This system will replace the traditional paper stamps in passports that are used when crossing the border to Schengen countries.

The EES will record data on crossing the external borders by third -country nationals, including Ukrainian citizens. With this new system, automated recording of the date and place of entry as well as biometric information such as fingerprints and face images is integrated. The aim is to monitor compliance with the permissible length of 90 days within 180 days and at the same time to fight document falsification and identity fraud.

functions and goals of the EES

The main functions of the EES include:

• Automatic recording of entry and exit data
• Biometric data for safer controls
• monitoring of the travel history of the entering

In addition to security optimization, the EES should rationalize the border processes and collect more precise data about travelers. Despite the modern improvement, there will continue to be manual stamps in passports during the transition phase.

For the Ukrainian citizens, nothing will change in terms of entry requirements, but the control over digital systems will take place. Biometric data is recorded when the system is started for the first time. Experts could indicate longer waiting times at the borders, especially during peak times, although there is the possibility to temporarily deactivate the system with a high rush.

relevant information for travelers

Travelers should check some important points before the start of the trip:

• validity of the passport
• Data of earlier trips to the Schengen area
• Validity of travel insurance
• Green card kfz insurance if you travel with your own vehicle

The EES applies to all non-EU citizens who travel in Europe for up to 90 days within 180 days, including British citizens. There are exceptions for nationals of the participating countries and certain travelers, such as students or researchers. While Cyprus plans to join the Schengen area in the coming year, Ireland and Cyprus do not use the EES and continue manual stamping.

The delays in the introduction of EES also have an impact on the ETIAS project, the start of which is to take place five to six months after the EES introduction. Overall, the new system aims to increase European security and to improve the efficiency of border controls, while the data protection of the travelers is guaranteed Visit Ukraine and Schengenvisum continue to pursue such developments closely.