EU delays stamp-less entry

EU stampless entry

The European Union has postponed the introduction of the Entry/Exit System (EES) for non-EU citizens, which was originally scheduled to take effect on November 10, 2024. The system is designed to digitally track the entry and exit of non-EU travelers at Schengen borders, replacing the current system of stamping physical passports.

How the EES would work

The EES aims to ensure that non-EU citizens do not exceed the allowed 90-day stay within any 180-day period in the Schengen area. Under the plan, travelers would submit fingerprint and facial biometric data during their first crossing. For subsequent trips, a passport scan at a self-service kiosk would match the passport to the previously enrolled biometric data, simplifying border procedures.

Concerns from key member states

The delay follows concerns raised by France, Germany, and the Netherlands about the readiness of the system. As a result, the EU Home Affairs Commissioner, Ylva Johansson, confirmed that the November 10 deadline would no longer be met. She emphasized that the system would be introduced gradually, saying, “It’s clear that we’re not going to be ready for November 10. We will be going for a phased approach, step by step.” A new timeline for implementation has not yet been set.

Ongoing setbacks for EES

This delay is the latest in a series of setbacks for the EES, which was originally planned for introduction in 2022. The system’s implementation has faced repeated delays due to various challenges.

Separate development with ETIAS to launch in 2025

It is important to note that the EES delay is unrelated to the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), which is scheduled to launch in May 2025. ETIAS will require visitors from 60 visa-free countries to apply for travel authorization before visiting 29 European countries. The authorization will be valid for three years and will involve a fee of seven euros. Like the EES, ETIAS has also experienced delays in its rollout.