The European Commission has confirmed that it’s now planning to phase in its new entry and exit system (EES) for Brits and other non-EU citizens over a six-month period.
While no start date has been given, it expects that EES, which is a system to digitally record a traveller’s details including biometric data, such as a facial scan and fingerprint, will be a ‘progressive’ roll out.
The long-delayed new border checks were due to have been introduced at all EU airports and ports on 10 November, but the start date was pushed back again after some countries said they weren’t ready.
The EC announced yesterday that while all EU countries will introduce the new digital checks from the launch date, EES won’t be effective at all border crossings. It said it will be introduced at ‘at least 10%’ of border crossings and gradually rolled out to 100% over a six-month period.
“During this period, travellers’ data will be electronically recorded only at the borders where the EES will operate. In parallel, passports will continue being stamped at all borders,” it added.
As no start date has been confirmed, it isn’t clear whether an app designed to be used by travellers to simplify the process will be ready before the launch.
However, it has been revealed that the app will not be able to capture passengers’ fingerprints, so the UK Government has asked the EU to drop this requirement.
Six months following the launch of EES, Brits and other non-EU citizens will be required to apply for a three-year visa waiver (ETIAS), costing about £6. Due to the delay to EES, this is not likely to be introduced before 2026.
