Europe’s new digital border system will be rolled out in 2025 after years of setbacks and delays.
The anticipated Entry/Exit System (EES) will come into force to increase border security; however, waiting times may increase.
All tourists from non-EU countries, including the UK, will encounter new measures when travelling to a country in the EU.
It will register a traveller’s biometric data and personal details – including names, travel documents and entry and exit information.
The EES will automate entry gates and help manage border control to reduce wait times and combat visa overstays.
However, concern over passenger processing time remains as the EES has forced Eurostar to change its check-in system at the UK border.
From Thursday, February 13, Eurostar will stop its SmartCheck option for Premium, Carte Blanche, and Etoile Club members. This system allows passengers to use facial recognition technology at St Pancras, yet it will be switched to the EES. The move sparks concerns over delays at the London station, forcing Eurostar to increase control kiosks to minimise disruption.
To help minimise the impact of travel on passengers, the UK is working with French authorities to complete checks at Britain’s Port of Dover for ferry crossings.
“We’re removing SmartCheck as we continue to make some changes at the station in preparation for the launch of the EU’s new Entry/Exit System (EES),” Eurostar said in a statement.
“As part of these preparations, we’re improving our border control area with new ePassport gates and extra passport control booths.
“This will help us ensure the border control process is as smooth as possible for passengers travelling in the coming months and after EES has launched.”
The EES will apply to all EU countries except Cyprus and Ireland. Norway, Iceland, Switzerland and Liechtenstein, which are in the Schengen area but are not EU states, will also participate.
Your digital record will be valid for three years. If you enter the country again during this time, you will only need to provide a fingerprint or photo at the border, when you enter and exit.
The European Commission (EC) allows a six-month phased system introduction to reduce long waiting times at borders. This will allow for those participating in the EES to fine-tune any technical and practical issues that arise.
According to the EC, the goal is for the new system to operate at 10% of border crossings in every member state on day one.
