Borderline chaos: EU’s biometric checks to roll out with a bumpy start.
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The EU’s new biometric border system promises tighter security and better tracking of non-EU travellers, but critics are already bracing for chaos.
The EU’s grand plan to digitise border controls has hit yet another snag, but officials are determined to roll it out, step by step, after delaying its launch for a third time in November. The Entry/Exit System (EES), the EU’s new biometric border system, promises tighter security and better tracking of non-EU travellers, but critics are already bracing for chaos at major crossings.
What’s the EES all about?
Think high-tech security: fingerprints, facial scans, and an end to the old-fashioned passport stamps for non-EU travellers on short stays. The idea? To keep tabs on entries and exits while cracking down on overstayers. But it’s not all smooth sailing.
Originally set for November 10, the EES launch was postponed again because, in true EU fashion, not all member states were ready. Now, the European Commission is opting for a “progressive entry into operation” – translation: a phased rollout to avoid complete mayhem.
How will it work?
Here’s the plan:
Day One: All EU member states including Denmark, must kick things off at – at least – one border crossing point, covering 10% of their traffic.
First 90 Days: This increases to 50% of traffic.
First 60 Days: Biometric data will be optional during registration – fingerprints and facial scans won’t be mandatory just yet.
Six Months: By the end of this period, every country must have the system fully operational.
But there’s a catch – manual passport stamping will continue during the transition, which could mean long queues, especially at hotspots like the Port of Dover.
Smooth operator or tech disaster?
The Commission insists the gradual approach will avoid border chaos, but it’s also leaving room for error. Member states can suspend the system in case of technical glitches or major disruptions – a sign that even the EU isn’t entirely confident.
What’s next?
Before the EES can officially begin its phased debut, the European Parliament and Council must give it the green light. On December 12, it’s on the agenda for EU Home Affairs ministers. Once approved, member states will have 60 days to finalise their rollout plans with the EU agency EU-LISA.
And that’s not all. Six months after the EES launches, the EU plans to bring in ETIAS – a new €7 travel authorisation system for non-EU visitors. But with delays stacking up, even that timeline is under review.
What you need to know
For Danish expats and others in sunny Spain, the EES won’t directly affect EU citizens or residents, but if you’re hosting friends or family from outside the bloc, they’ll need to brace for new biometric checks. And don’t forget those queues at busy crossings – they’re likely to get worse before they get better.
EU Commissioner Magnus Brunner has called the EES a “big step towards integrated border management” – but will it be a step too far for overstretched border points? Let’s wait and see.
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