The European Union will soon introduce an electronic Entry/Exit System that will eliminate the need for passport stamping at ports. Beginning on November 10, travelers entering Europe will have their faces and fingerprints scanned, which will be used to cross-reference their passports for future entries and exits. This system is designed to enhance security and make it more difficult for criminals, terrorists, or individuals using fake passports to enter the EU.
In order to use the electronic Entry/Exit System, visitors will need biometric passports, also known as e-passports, which contain biometric identifiers and electronic chips for enhanced security. While travelers without biometric passports will still be able to enter the EU, they will need to undergo additional checks. The implementation of this system will provide increased control over who enters the Schengen Area and help in countering irregular migration.
Additionally, the EU will be introducing the ETIAS system, which is a form of travel authorization for non-citizens in order to visit 30 European countries. Travelers from 60 countries will need to pay less than $8 to complete an application and wait for approval, which could take varying amounts of time. The implementation of the ETIAS system is expected to go live in the spring of 2025, and approved applications will be valid for three years or until the associated passport expires.
EU Commissioner Ylva Johansson emphasized the importance of these new systems in enhancing security and preventing criminal activities within the EU. The digital border controls, combined with the requirement for biometric passports and the ETIAS system, are part of the EU’s efforts to strengthen border security and ensure the safety of its citizens. These measures are intended to make it more difficult for criminals, terrorists, or individuals using fraudulent documentation to cross borders undetected.
The implementation of the electronic Entry/Exit System and ETIAS will increase the efficiency of border checks, streamline the entry process for travelers, and provide enhanced security measures throughout the EU. By utilizing biometric data and digital technologies, the EU aims to modernize its border control procedures and adapt to the evolving threats in the global security landscape. These systems are a response to the changing nature of threats and the need for more advanced security measures in an increasingly interconnected world.
In conclusion, the European Union’s introduction of the electronic Entry/Exit System and the implementation of the ETIAS system represent significant steps towards improving border security, combating criminal activities, and enhancing overall safety within the EU. By utilizing biometric data, digital technologies, and travel authorization systems, the EU aims to create a more secure and efficient system for monitoring and controlling the movement of individuals across its borders. These measures reflect the EU’s commitment to adapting to emerging security challenges and ensuring the safety and wellbeing of its citizens and visitors.
