EU Announces Official Launch Date for Entry/Exit System
Key Takeaways
1. The EU Commissioner for Home Affairs has officially confirmed that the Entry/Exit System (EES) will launch on November 10, 2024.
2. Commissioner Johansson stated that the system will impact 700 million travelers annually.
3. The EES is an automated system designed to modernize border management across EU countries.
The EU Commission has officially set the launch date for the new Entry/Exit System (EES) for November 10, 2024.
In a recent address at eu-LISA, European Commissioner for Home Affairs Ylva Johansson announced that the EES would commence operations on this date. While media outlets had previously speculated about this launch date, this marks the first official confirmation from the EU, setting a definitive target.
"After extensive discussions with Member States, stakeholders, and you, I have decided that the Entry/Exit System will begin operations on November 10," stated Johansson. She noted that certain legal steps remain before the Commission can make the formal decision, but November 10 is now the target day.
Commissioner Johansson also revealed that the system is currently in its final testing phase.
EES to Impact 700 Million Travelers Annually
Once implemented, the EES will affect 700 million travelers to Europe each year, according to Johansson. She highlighted that the system will also enhance security for 450 million Europeans.
"Your work will impact 700 million people, as last year, over 700 million tourists traveled to Europe. Thanks to your efforts, 450 million Europeans will feel safer," Johansson added, expressing her gratitude to eu-LISA for their successful mission over the past decade.
What is the EES & How Will It Affect Foreigners Entering the EU?
The Entry/Exit System (EES) is an automated IT system that will record the entry and exit of foreign travelers visiting the EU for short stays, regardless of whether they require a visa.
Replacing the current manual passport stamping process, the EES will register travelers' names, travel document types, biometric data (fingerprints and facial images), and the date and location of entry and exit from the EU.
The system will also track entry refusals, aiming to modernize border management, prevent irregular migration, and enhance the protection of European citizens. It will also help identify over-stayers and those attempting to enter the EU with forged documents.
Once launched, all foreign travelers will need to register with the system. Their data will be securely stored in a database for three years, eliminating the need for repeated registration each time they enter or exit the EU.