The European Commission has proposed a phased introduction of the EU’s much delayed biometric Entry/Exit System (EES) next year.
The ESS was supposed to go live on November 10 but a postponement was announced in October after member states France, Germany and the Netherlands said the technology would not be ready.
According to the EU’s official EES website, the scheme is now due to start in 2025 but no specific date is given.
An EC statement on Thursday (December 5) said the proposal “foresees a progressive start of operations of the EES over a period of six months”.
“In practice, that means that all member states will start operating the EES from day one at one or more border crossing points,” said the statement.
More: Travellers to Europe unaware of likely EES disruption before delay
“Border authorities will progressively register in the system the data of third-country nationals crossing the borders, starting with at least 10% of border crossings, and reaching full registration of all individuals by the end of the six months 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.”
Those member states that want to operate the EES “fully from day one” will be able to do so. After the six-month period, EES should be fully implemented across all member states.
The statement said the new approach offers countries the “flexibility to adjust their procedures, better prepare their borders and manage the flows of travellers”.
“Travellers will progressively experience improved and more efficient digital border checks, automated procedures and reduced waiting times at the borders,” it added.
“Border authorities and the transport industry will also have more time to adjust to the new procedures.”
The proposal also includes the possibility to temporarily suspend the system in case of disruptions.
“Member states will also be able to skip the collection of biometric data in exceptional circumstances, enabling them to tackle excessive waiting times at the borders, without compromising on the security,” continued the statement.
“By allowing for temporary suspension, the risk of long waiting times at the borders will be substantially reduced.”
When the proposal is adopted and enters into force, the EC will decide on the date of the progressive start of the EES, “after having received all declarations of readiness” from member states.
An information campaign will be launched before the start of operations.
The new EES system will digitally record the traveller’s name, travel document, biometric data, such as fingerprints and captured facial images and the date and place of entry and exit. It will replace the current system of passport stamping for non-EU citizens.
The plan also means the introduction of the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (Etias) will be discussed and revised.
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