Border security: MEPs endorse gradual roll-out of Entry-Exit System

Press release 23-04-2025 - 12:29 20250414IPR27987 Border security: MEPs endorse gradual roll-out of Entry-Exit System Entry-Exit System will register external border crossings by non-EU • nationals for short stays Electronic data to replace physical stamps and reduce queues • System would be launched gradually over 180 days to allow EU • countries to prepare On Wednesday, the Civil Liberties Committee endorsed plans to gradually roll out the Entry-Exit System (EES) at the EU’s external borders. Civil Liberties Committee MEPs adopted a draft position on the proposed gradual launch of the Entry-Exit System (EES) at EU external borders by 54 votes in favour, 2 against and with 10 abstentions. Once operational the system will register data of third‑country nationals, including biometric data such as facial images and fingerprints, as they enter and leave the Schengen area on short-stay visas. This is intended to improve security, speed up the process, and reduce queues. By launching the system gradually, and allowing member states to start operating it in stages, it should be possible to prevent a simultaneous launch everywhere from compromising the system’s resilience. During the roll-out period, the launch could be temporarily suspended if waiting times become too long or there are technical issues, says the Committee report. Roll-out over 180 days According to the proposed legislation, the Commission will decide when to commence a 180- day period during...