The European Union (EU) has announced that there will be yet another delay in the introduction of the Entry/Exit System (EES) for non-EU travellers in the Schengen region. The fingerprint and facial scan check system was due to be rolled out on November 10. However, due to a delay in the setup of systems at the borders, the launch has been pushed back.
New Entry/Exit System For Non-EU Travellers In Schengen Delayed Again
Originally set to launch on November 10, the new EES for non-EU travellers in the Schengen area has been delayed. The automated system designed to track short-stay travellers in the EU faced another delay after Germany, France and the Netherlands said that the border computer systems were not yet ready.
As per a Travel And Tour World report, the announcement came after a meeting of EU interior ministers a few days back. While discussing the issue, they agreed to push back the launch of the system for now, without giving any new date of launch. Reportedly, there is also a possibility that the EES could be introduced gradually, rather than a big introduction across all borders. However, for a phased rollout, the EU would need to make several legal amendments.
All You Need To Know About This New Travel Border Check
The Entry/Exit System was proposed to modernise border checks for non-EU citizens entering and exiting the Schengen Area. In this, non-EU citizens, including people from the UK, could enter or leave the Schengen Area with a simple fingerprint and facial scan check system, instead of the usual stamping passports procedure.
The EES will allow non-EU travellers a maximum stay of 90 days within a 180-day period in the Schengen area. This would be helpful for travellers visiting the region for business or vacation purposes. To enter this system, as per reports, the traveller will need to provide their passports, have their photos taken, and provide fingerprints and facial scans electronically.
After that, the computer will record every entry and exit from the Schengen Area. They will also be able to share biometric data in real-time. This will also help the authorities check visa overstays and identity fraud. The system was first proposed in 2016, as per the Travel And Tour World report. Originally, it was to be introduced at all Schengen borders in 2022. However, after a long line of setbacks, the system is yet to be introduced.
Also Read: These European Countries Are the Most Likely To Approve Schengen Visas For Indian Citizens In 2024
The new launch date for the EES is yet to be announced by the European Union.
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