Overview
- From January 9, Schengen states must run biometric EES functionality at least at 50% of external border crossing points and register at least 35% of estimated third‑country crossings.
- Airport operators report processing times up to 70% longer with peak waits of about three hours, and ACI Europe warns the higher registration target could create safety risks.
- Transit travelers are affected because they must clear immigration at their first point of entry into the Schengen area, raising the risk of missed connections.
- Portugal has suspended EES at Lisbon’s Humberto Delgado Airport for three months after an EU assessment found serious deficiencies, and 24 GNR personnel were deployed this week to help check documents.
- Full EES implementation is scheduled for April 10, 2026, while ETIAS is expected to launch in late 2026 with traveler requirements taking effect in 2027.