EU Reveals 6-Month Plan for Biometric Border Control: Key Points

Published Date : 7/10/2025 

The European Union has confirmed the phased rollout of its new biometric Entry/Exit System (EES), setting a 180-day timeline to enhance border security and streamline traveler processing. The system aims to reduce entry rule violations but faces challenges like potential delays and cybersecurity concerns. 

The European Union has officially confirmed the 180-day launch schedule for its biometric Entry/Exit System (EES), marking a pivotal step in modernizing border controls across the bloc. This development comes after multiple delays, with the system now set to begin a phased rollout to avoid overwhelming border infrastructure. The European Parliament approved the plan with a vote of 572 to 42, allowing member states to implement the system gradually. The goal is to prevent bottlenecks that could arise if all countries launched the system simultaneously, ensuring smoother operations at external borders. n n nThe EES is designed to collect additional biometric and biographic data from travelers entering or leaving the EU. This includes facial recognition, fingerprints, and other identifiers to verify identities and track compliance with entry rules. While the system is expected to improve security and efficiency, some border officials have warned of short-term delays. For example, the UK is deploying self-serve biometric kiosks at ports to prepare for the EES, which could help manage the transition. However, the increased data collection may initially slow down processing times as staff adapt to the new procedures. n n nA key component of the EES is the 'Travel to Europe' app, developed by iProov and Inverid. This app allows travelers to pre-register their biometric data, potentially reducing congestion at border crossings. The app will be tested at Sweden’s Arlanda Airport this autumn, offering a glimpse into how the system will function. If successful, it could serve as a model for other EU countries, streamlining the check-in process for visitors. n n nThe rollout plan outlines specific milestones. Within 30 days of the EES launch, 10% of border crossings are expected to be registered with the system. By day 90, this number should rise to 25%, and all crossings should be fully integrated by day 170. While the 180-day deadline is set, member states are not required to wait for the full period, meaning some countries could adopt the system earlier if feasible. However, the EU has also included provisions to pause deployments if technical issues or long wait times arise, ensuring flexibility during the transition. n n nEu-LISA, the EU’s agency responsible for managing border security systems, has 30 days to finalize a deployment plan. Member states will then have 60 days to develop their national strategies. The EES law is set to take effect three days after its publication in the EU’s Official Journal, though the Council of the EU must formally adopt the legislation. This step is considered a formality, as the Council and Parliament reached an agreement on the law’s final form in May 2025. n n nDespite the progress, the EES faces scrutiny over cybersecurity. Sopra Steria, the company maintaining the Schengen Information System II, has come under fire for vulnerabilities in its systems. As the EES expands its reliance on such infrastructure, concerns about data protection and potential breaches have intensified. The EU will need to address these issues to build public trust in the new system. n n nThe EES is part of a broader trend toward biometric technology in border security. Similar systems are being implemented in other regions, such as the U.S.’s ESTA and Canada’s eTA. By leveraging advanced identification methods, the EU aims to balance security with traveler convenience. However, the success of the EES will depend on effective implementation, stakeholder collaboration, and continuous monitoring of its impact on border operations. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS): 

Q: What is the EU’s Entry/Exit System (EES)?

A: The EES is a biometric border control system designed to collect and verify traveler data, including facial recognition and fingerprints, to enhance security and streamline border crossings within the EU.

Q: When will the EES launch?

A: The EES is set to begin a phased rollout within 180 days of the European Parliament’s approval, with full integration expected by day 170 of the deployment period.

Q: How will the EES impact travelers?

A: While the system aims to improve security, travelers may face initial delays as border officials adapt. The 'Travel to Europe' app is intended to ease the process by enabling pre-registration.

Q: What are the main challenges of the EES?

A: Potential short-term delays, cybersecurity concerns, and the need for coordinated implementation across member states are key challenges. Sopra Steria’s role in maintaining related systems has also raised questions about data protection.

Q: Can countries implement the EES ahead of schedule?

A: Yes, member states are not required to wait for the full 180-day period. However, the EU has provisions to pause deployments if technical issues or long wait times arise during the rollout. 

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