Nine European countries, including France, Greece, and Italy, are postponing the full rollout of the European Union’s Entry/Exit System (EES), citing the need for more time to implement biometric checks at key border crossings and airports. This system, which requires non-EU travelers entering the Schengen area to register their fingerprints and facial images, was initially launched last October. However, technical and operational hurdles, particularly at busy travel hubs, have repeatedly delayed its complete implementation.
Countries such as Germany, Malta, the Netherlands, Switzerland, and Belgium have also sought extensions for the system’s full deployment. Meanwhile, Spain has managed to overcome initial challenges and has fully implemented the EES. According to EU sources, the system has so far processed approximately 200 million registrations and has successfully barred around 70,000 individuals from entering the Schengen zone. Those prevented include travelers lacking the necessary visas, overstayers, and individuals attempting entry with fake identity documents.
Implementation of the EES remains inconsistent across the regions requesting additional time. Some locations, like Eurostar terminals in Brussels and the port of Antwerp, have already commenced biometric checks. Major international airports such as Frankfurt and Schiphol are conducting these checks, though smaller airports continue to struggle with infrastructure and capacity issues.
The International Air Transport Association has previously expressed concerns about potential delays caused by the EES, and airlines have warned that extended queues could disrupt peak travel periods. In response to these challenges, a pre-travel application named Travel to Europe is being introduced. This application allows travelers to submit their passport details and facial images before arriving at the border and is currently operational in Sweden and Portugal, with plans for expansion to other countries.