The next time one have to measure the path from Britain to continental Europe, they may notice a change – the European Union’s digital border control system will start operating this autumn, writes the BBC.
The new system – the “Entry/Exit System” or EES – is planned to strengthen border security and make travel easier over time, but at the same time there are concerns that first-time registration will cause queues.
The EES is a digital system designed to track when people who are not European Union citizens enter or leave the Schengen area. The Schengen area covers 29 European countries, mainly EU member states, whose citizens can move freely within the area. These include many popular British destinations in France, Spain, Portugal, Italy and Greece. The EES will gradually replace the current system, which involves stamping passports.
After several delays,
the European Commission confirmed in July that the new system would start operating on the 12th of October
and be gradually rolled out over six months. The EES is expected to be operational at all border crossings in the Schengen area by April 2026.
For the first time, people arriving from outside the EU will have to register their biometrics and scan their passports. Depending on where they are going, this could be done by a border control officer. Passengers on flights will be registered when they arrive at their destination. However, if they are leaving the UK by crossing the English Channel, they will be registered before departure.
There are concerns about the first-time registration, which could lead to queues and congestion, particularly in places with limited space, such as Dover.
The EU is also planning to introduce a new visa system that will be linked to passports and linked to the EES – the European Travel Authorisation and Authorisation System (ETIAS). People coming from non-EU countries who do not require a visa (such as British citizens) will be able to register online before their trip. ETIAS could start operating in late 2026, but the exact date has not yet been confirmed. Registration will cost 20 euros and will be valid for three days. People under 18 and over 70 will have to apply but will not have to pay.
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