EU Commission Proposes Digitalization of Passports & ID Cards for All Travelers Entering and Exiting the Schengen Area
Key Takeaways
1. The EU Commission has introduced two proposals to enhance the travel experience.
2. One proposal aims to establish a framework for using digital travel credentials.
3. Another proposal introduces a digital travel application to simplify administrative processes.
The European Commission has unveiled two initiatives designed to streamline travel for individuals entering and exiting the Schengen Area, including non-EU citizens.
In a press release, the Commission outlined plans to implement a standardized framework for digital travel credentials, alongside a new digital application that allows travelers to store their credentials securely.
This framework would digitize passports and identity cards for anyone crossing Schengen borders, transforming passport data into a digital format without storing biometric data like fingerprints. The initiative is expected to improve border control efficiency, enabling faster, more secure travel by reducing the use of forged documents.
Enhanced Security Measures
The new scheme would enhance security at the EU’s external borders by making it more difficult for individuals to use fraudulent documents. Both EU citizens and non-EU travelers will undergo thorough checks, allowing authorities to focus on preventing illegal activities, including human trafficking and criminal detection.
For travelers, this means less administrative paperwork and the ability to use digital ID cards for border control and registration, easing their travel process significantly.
Digital Travel Application to Streamline Border Checks
Additionally, the Commission has proposed the development of the *EU Digital Travel Application*. This tool will allow travelers to create and store their digital travel credentials, making border checks more efficient by verifying documents and matching them to travelers’ facial images.
Once implemented, this application is expected to reduce wait times and streamline border processing. Development, testing, and approval will be managed by the European Commission’s eu-Lisa agency, and member states will soon begin issuing digital travel documents.
Entry/Exit System to Further Improve Travel Processes
The Entry/Exit System, set to launch in November, will automate the registration of non-EU nationals visiting Schengen countries for short stays of up to 90 days. This system is designed to monitor migration while ensuring a smooth travel experience. The *EU Digital Travel Application* will work seamlessly with the Entry/Exit System, further enhancing travel security and efficiency.