The European Union (EU) is taking significant steps to enhance its management of irregular migration by implementing a new electronic entry system. This initiative aims to systematically monitor the entry and exit of non-EU citizens across member states. The system will also provide critical information regarding whether individuals overstay their permitted duration within the Schengen area.
On 19 May, representatives from the European Parliament and the governments of the member states convened in Brussels and reached a consensus on the phased introduction of the Entry/Exit System (EES). This system is designed to collect biometric data, including fingerprints and facial images, to ensure accurate tracking of non-EU citizens’ movements.
The primary objective of the new entry system is to improve the oversight of irregular migration and to mitigate instances of identity fraud. Member states will benefit from real-time access to travel data and the residency status of individuals from third countries. The rollout will commence with a six-month introductory phase. During the initial two months, member states can operate the system without incorporating biometric data. From the third month onward, it is anticipated that at least 35% of border crossings will be conducted through the new system.
EU Commissioner for Internal Affairs and Migration Magnus Brunner emphasised the significance of this initiative, stating that for the first time, the EU will have complete, reliable, real-time information on who enters and leaves the Schengen area.
The full transition to the EES is expected to be completed within six months, although manual passport stamping will continue until full functionality is achieved.
It is important to note that a definitive start date for the new system has yet to be established, as this will require a separate decision from the European Commission. Furthermore, the agreement must be formally ratified by both the Council and the Parliament.
