The implementation of the EU's post-Brexit Entry/Exit System (EES) has faced further delays. Originally planned for launch in 2022, the system has been rescheduled multiple times. The most recent update indicates that the EES will now be put into effect by the end of 2023, instead of the previously anticipated May 2023 date. 

As a result, non-EU travellers entering the Schengen Area will have a temporary reprieve from the new border controls. This delay also means that there are limited mechanisms in place for countries to monitor potential overstays beyond the current 90-day limit.

Meaning of Entry/Exit System

The EES, also known as the Entry-Exit System, is a forthcoming automated registration system designed for non-EU travellers visiting the UK and other EU countries who do not require a visa. To utilise the system, these travellers will be required to scan their passports or other travel documents at a self-service kiosk every time they cross an external border of the EU. It's important to note that individuals who hold long stay visas or legal residency will be exempt from this requirement.

The primary purpose of the EES is to record essential information about the traveller, including their name, biometric data, as well as the date and location of their entry and exit from the EU. Facial scans and fingerprint data will be securely stored for a period of three years following each trip.

The EES is set to be implemented across all EU member states, with the exception of Cyprus and Ireland, as well as four non-EU countries within the Schengen Area: Iceland, Lichtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland. As per the existing regulations, travellers are permitted to stay in the Schengen Area for a maximum of 90 days within a 180-day period. The implementation of the EES aims to strengthen the monitoring of overstays by recording entry and exit data, thus enabling better enforcement of these time limits.

General objectives of the EES

The primary objective of the Entry-Exit System (EES) is to enhance border security and improve the management of non-EU travellers entering and exiting the European Union (EU) member states. The system aims to achieve the following goals:

Strengthen Border Control:

The EES is designed to bolster border control measures by automating the registration process for non-EU travellers. It allows for the efficient and accurate collection of essential information, such as biometric data, entry and exit dates, and travel document details, which helps authorities in verifying the identity of travellers and ensuring compliance with immigration regulations.

Monitor and Prevent Overstays: 

By recording the entry and exit data of travellers, the EES enables better monitoring and detection of individuals who overstay their permitted duration in the EU. This helps authorities identify potential visa or immigration rule violations and take appropriate enforcement actions to maintain the integrity of the immigration system.

Facilitate Law Enforcement: 

The EES aids in enhancing law enforcement efforts by providing reliable and up-to-date information about the movements of non-EU travellers. This data can be utilised for security purposes, investigations, and the prevention of criminal activities.

 Improve Travel Document Security:

The EES includes the scanning of passports or other travel documents, allowing for verification and validation of their authenticity. This helps in detecting fraudulent or tampered documents, contributing to overall travel document security.

Enhance EU-wide Information Sharing: 

The EES facilitates the exchange of data between EU member states, enabling a more coordinated approach to border management and immigration control. It promotes information sharing and cooperation among EU countries to improve security and ensure consistent application of immigration rules.

Overall, the EES aims to enhance border security, streamline entry and exit processes, and strengthen the enforcement of immigration regulations within the EU and associated Schengen Area countries.

The reaction of the travel industry due to the delay

The travel industry has responded positively to the delay, with airlines expressing support for the decision as it provides additional time for necessary preparations.

A joint statement from prominent industry organisations, including the European region of Airports Council International (ACI), Airlines for Europe (A4E), the European Regions Airline Association (ERA), and the International Air Transport Association (IATA), highlights the significance of the Entry-Exit System (EES) as a transformative measure for managing the EU's borders. However, they emphasise the importance of resolving certain issues to ensure a smooth implementation and operation of the system, minimising disruptions for air passengers.

The coalition identifies several key areas that require attention, including the wider adoption and effective implementation of automation at national border crossing points, allocation of adequate funding by member states to ensure sufficient deployment of trained staff and resources at the EU's external borders, particularly at airports. They also stress the need for airlines and airports to receive "sufficient resources" to facilitate compliance with the new rules. Additionally, the organisations call for a comprehensive public communications campaign to inform travellers about the upcoming changes.

Overall, the travel industry stakeholders welcome the delay in the implementation of the EES, as it allows for better readiness and coordination among all parties involved, ensuring a smoother transition and minimising potential disruptions for travellers.

Is the Entry/Exit System on target?

The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) is still on track for implementation, although there has been a slight adjustment in the timeline. ETIAS is closely connected to the Entry-Exit System (EES) and is designed to require non-EU citizens who do not need an EU visa to obtain travel authorization in order to visit the Schengen Area for short-term stays.

Initially, ETIAS was scheduled to become operational from November 2023. However, according to the European Commission's website, it is now stated that ETIAS will come into force in 2024. While an exact date is not provided, the EU has previously indicated that ETIAS will be introduced approximately five to six months after the implementation of the EES. This suggests there may be a gradual implementation period during which ETIAS will be introduced alongside the Entry-Exit System.

Under the ETIAS scheme, travellers will be able to apply online for authorization before their trip, with an application fee of €7. Once approved, the electronic travel authorization will be electronically linked to their passport and will remain valid for a period of three years.

Reason why the Entry/Exit System has been delayed

The delay in the implementation of the Entry-Exit System (EES) can be attributed to challenges faced by contractors in meeting the established deadlines. 

Installation of automated EES barriers at international land, maritime, and air borders throughout the Schengen Area is a complex task that requires careful execution.

To facilitate the registration process, travellers will have the option to provide their details at self-service kiosks or through mobile apps in certain countries. Subsequently, border guards or e-gates will carry out the necessary checks to ensure compliance with immigration regulations.

The exact timeline for the introduction of the EES is currently uncertain. However, in March 2023, a new timeline is expected to be presented for approval, providing clarity regarding the revised schedule for implementation.

Entry/Exit System impact on travel

The implementation of the Entry-Exit System (EES) has raised concerns about potential impacts on travel, particularly at border checkpoints.

In the UK and other countries, there are apprehensions that the EES could lead to increased delays at border crossings. A report by non-profit organisation Statewatch, based on a European Council report, highlights concerns expressed by various countries regarding the limited time available for testing the system before its launch.

French authorities, for example, are responsible for conducting EES border checks at key points such as the UK's Port of Dover, Eurostar, and Eurotunnel. They are currently collaborating with the UK government to minimise the system's impact on border flows and traffic. However, they have expressed concerns about potential waiting times and the need for effective management.

Other countries are also in the process of developing their EES implementation plans. The European Commission has suggested that the system may need to be introduced gradually and with flexibility to mitigate the risk of prolonged waiting times at borders. This approach aims to strike a balance between border security and ensuring smooth and efficient travel for individuals crossing EU external borders.

While efforts are being made to address these concerns and optimise the EES implementation, it is important to be prepared for the possibility of some adjustments and potential impacts on travel times at border checkpoints.