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What Is European Union’s New Entry-Exit System & How Will It Help UAE Travellers?

Here's how the EU's new system benefits UAE Travellers.

by Deeplata Garde
What Is European Union’s New Entry-Exit System & How Will It Help UAE Travellers?

Are you planning a European getaway? The EU’s new Entry-Exit System (EES) could make your journey smoother. UAE travellers, pack your bags and get ready for a new European adventure because Europe’s border control is getting a major upgrade. This November, the European Union is unveiling the Entry-Exit System (EES), and it’s set to change the way you travel. After a series of delays, this high-tech system is ready to take off, so you might want to brush up on what’s coming. If you’ve been caught in the web of Schengen Visa delays or are frustrated with long wait times, you’re in good company. With the US also experiencing visa hold-ups, Europe’s delays can be a killjoy for your travel plans. But once you land in Europe, the EES will be your new best friend, or at least a new checkpoint.

What Is The Entry-Exit System? A Sneak Peek Into Europe’s High-Tech Border System

The EES is Europe’s cutting-edge system designed to track every entry and exit from the Schengen Area. No more old-fashioned passport stamps; the EES uses digital technology to record your journey. Whether you’re flying from Dubai to Paris or driving from France to Italy, the EES will log your date, location, and biometric data.

Here’s how it works: at your first entry, you’ll give your fingerprints and a facial scan. On future visits (within three years), you’ll mostly just need a quick facial scan. The system updates your information for the next three years—unless you get a new passport, in which case you’ll need to re-register. Keep in mind, that smaller airports might not be fully set up yet, so be prepared for some potential delays.

But that’s not all. By mid-2025, Europe will introduce the Electronic Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS). Think of it like Europe’s version of the US ESTA or British ETA. Starting then, all non-EU travellers will need to get this Dhs29 travel permit online. It’s valid for three years and covers short-stay visa holders and visa-exempt travellers from over 60 countries.

Also Read: ETIAS: Come 2024, Here’s A List Of Countries That Would Need A Visa To Travel To Europe

ETIAS: Your New Digital Pass for Europe

ETIAS will be your golden ticket to enter 30 European countries, including the Schengen Area, Bulgaria, Romania, and Cyprus. It’s not a visa, but you’ll need it to enter these countries for up to 90 days within 180 days. The application process is straightforward: provide your personal and passport details, share any serious convictions from the past 20 years, and outline your travel plans.

With ETIAS launching in mid-2025, you’ll have a six-month grace period to sort out your authorisation without worrying about entry issues, provided you meet all other criteria. Just be cautious of unofficial websites offering ETIAS applications—stick to the official site to avoid scams and extra charges. Frontex, the EU’s border agency, has already flagged over 100 dodgy sites.

Get ready to navigate Europe’s new travel rules and make your next trip smoother than ever. Safe travels!

Cover Image Courtesy: European Union/Website

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