The EU’s Entry/Exit System (EES) is set to come into force in 2025, with a gradual rollout beginning in October of this year. It is aimed at enhancing border security and identifying overstaying travellers in the Schengen Area. The system requires infrastructure upgrades at Europe’s border crossings, with only a small percentage expected to be ready by the launch date. Travellers from the UK, US, and other non-EU countries will be required to scan their passports at self-service kiosks when crossing EU external borders, with biometric data recorded for multiple trips within three years.
European train company Eurostar has had to adjust its check-in procedures at London’s St Pancras train station due to the EES’s scanning requirements. They have removed a fast-track service that allowed selected passengers to skip manual passport checks, in preparation for the facial scanning and fingerprinting requirements under the EES. Concerns have been raised about potential delays in passenger processing times, but Eurostar has stated they will increase control kiosks to minimize disruptions. The EES is also expected to impact Dover ferry crossings, with French authorities working with the UK government to minimize disruptions.
The EES has faced delays due to the heavy infrastructure requirements at international borders, leading to a nearly nine-year delay in its implementation. Eurostar’s changes to its check-in system and the potential for delays at Dover ferry crossings are preparing for the EES launch. French authorities are collaborating with UK counterparts to reduce the impact on border flows and traffic, with a soft launch planned to simplify the process. The European Commission has allowed for a phased implementation of the system to address concerns of long waiting times at borders, with a goal to have the new system operational at 10% of border crossings in member states on launch day.
Despite the challenges posed by the EES, efforts are being made to mitigate potential disruptions at border crossings. The UK government has allocated funds to key border crossings such as Eurostar, Eurotunnel, and the Port of Dover to upgrade their infrastructure for the new system. Eurostar has made changes to their check-in procedures, while French authorities are working with the UK to ensure smooth border flows. The soft launch period and phased implementation of the EES are designed to allow countries more flexibility in adjusting to the new system and minimizing delays for travellers. Overall, the EES is a significant step towards enhancing border security and monitoring traveller movements in the Schengen Area.
