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3d ago

EU Confirms October Rollout of Biometric Border Checks for Non-EU Travellers

The phased Entry/Exit System will replace manual passport stamping with biometric registration, raising concerns over travel delays and operational challenges.

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Overview

  • The EU's Entry/Exit System (EES) will launch in October 2025, requiring non-EU travellers to register fingerprints and photos during a six-month phased rollout.
  • The system, replacing manual passport stamping, aims to enhance security and automate monitoring of non-EU visitors' stays in the Schengen Area.
  • Concerns have been raised about potential delays, with processing times for cars at the Channel Tunnel expected to increase from under one minute to up to seven minutes.
  • Airlines have been warned that passengers may need to remain on planes to prevent overcrowding at European terminals during the initial rollout phase.
  • Following the EES implementation, the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (Etias) will launch in autumn 2026, requiring a €7 online travel waiver for visa-exempt visitors.