EU Nations Commit to Phased Implementation of Entry/Exit System Following Multiple Delays

EU Nations Commit to Phased Implementation of Entry/Exit System Following Multiple Delays

EU Member States to Gradually Implement Entry/Exit System Following Multiple Delays

Key Points:

  1. EU nations have agreed on a phased implementation of the Entry/Exit System (EES).
  2. The system is expected to become operational in autumn 2024.
  3. Member states will have a six-month transition period before the EES is fully launched.

After repeated delays caused by technical challenges and lack of preparedness, EU member states have reached an agreement on a gradual rollout of the Entry/Exit System (EES). The decision was finalized during a meeting of EU interior ministers in Brussels on March 5.

Polish Minister of the Interior and Administration Tomasz Siemoniak confirmed the timeline, stating that “October is our horizon,” indicating that the EES is expected to be operational by autumn 2024. However, the EU has yet to announce an exact launch date.

Siemoniak also highlighted the significance of this agreement, emphasizing that it balances flexibility with enhanced security for migratory movements across the EU’s external borders.

Two Options for EES Implementation

EU member states will have two choices for implementing the EES:

  • A full rollout at once
  • A phased rollout over six months

For those opting for gradual implementation, the transition will follow these steps:

  • First month: At least 10% of border crossings must be registered.
  • First 60 days: The system can operate without biometric functionalities.
  • After three months: The EES must function with biometric features at a minimum of half of all border crossing points.
  • By the end of six months: Full registration of all travelers must be completed.

Until the transition period is over, border officials will continue manually stamping passports.

What Is the EU’s Entry/Exit System?

The EES is an automated IT system designed to modernize border controls by replacing manual passport stamping. It will register all non-EU travelers—whether visa-exempt or not—by collecting biometric data and personal details.

This system aims to:

  • Strengthen security at the EU’s external borders
  • Detect overstayers and identity fraud
  • Monitor entries and exits more efficiently
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