Business Travel Solutions
European Union | Delayed go-live for the Entry-Exit System (EES) and the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS)
Summary
The European Union’s Entry-Exit System (EES), which was scheduled for launch on 10 November, has been postponed and may be revised, according to the latest updates from EU officials.This delay also impacts the related European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), which has been postponed indefinitely.
The detail
The EES
What is the Entry-Exit System?
The Entry/Exit System (EES) will digitally register the data of non-EU citizens every time they enter and exit the external Schengen borders and will replace the physical stamping of passports at passport control. This will impact short-term travelers to Europe, collecting information for both visa and visa-free nationals, whether they are traveling for business or tourism.
The European Commission had confirmed in Summer 2024 that it will launch on 10th November 2024. Further delays have now been announced, with a pilot program expected in 2025. The project, which has seen substantial investment, particularly in the UK, has faced resistance from Member States like France, Germany, and the Netherlands over its readiness and potential to cause border delays.
The European Commission’s current proposal is to implement the system in a phased manner. The system will likely be piloted in select airports and border points, with biometric requirements, such as fingerprinting and facial recognition, reduced to alternatives rather than mandatory procedures.
This change has raised questions about the future structure of the EES and its impact on travellers. As of now, there is no new definitive go-live date.
Contact us
Vialto Partners can help preparing business travellers and Business Travel Programs with these upcoming developments. You can review our comprehensive FAQ on the related ETIAS here. For further information, please reach out to your Vialto Partners point of contact, or alternatively:
Scherezade Maestre
Senior Manager Business Travel & Global Immigration
Lindsey Barras
Partner
Further information on Vialto Partners can be found here: www.vialtopartners.com
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