EU to Implement New Biometric Registration System for Non-EU Travellers

Planning a trip to Europe next year? Brace yourself for some changes. The European Union has introduced a new law that will require all non-EU travellers, including British and American tourists, to register their biometric details at the border.

This includes providing fingerprints and undergoing a streamlined process at self-service kiosks, alongside passport scanning. Set to be implemented in early 2024, the European Union Entry/Exit System (EES) aims to enhance security and streamline immigration procedures for non-EU arrivals.

It’s important to note that the collection of biometric data has long been planned in conjunction with the EU’s new ETIAS visa scheme for non-EU arrivals.

What is EES?

The EES is part of the EU’s broader plan to implement the ETIAS visa scheme for non-EU arrivals. The ETIAS requires travellers from visa-exempt countries to obtain electronic travel authorization before their trip. As part of this process, biometric data collection was deemed necessary to further strengthen border control measures.

The EES will revolutionize the border control process by introducing an automated biometric registration system. Upon arrival, travellers will be directed to self-service kiosks, where they will have their photographs taken and fingerprints scanned.

These biometric details will be securely stored and cross-checked with the provided passport information. The introduction of this streamlined process aims to expedite entry procedures while bolstering security measures.

Must Read: EU Postpones Launch of Entry-Exit System, Continues to Stamp Passports

Impact on Travellers

The EES will impact travellers from all non-EU countries, including popular destinations for British and American tourists such as France, Spain, Italy, and other EU member states. Travellers from the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, Japan, and other non-EU countries will be subject to the EES requirements.

While the introduction of the EES may initially complicate travel plans, it is expected to enhance overall border control efficiency and contribute to a safer environment for both visitors and residents within the European Union.

Integration with the ETIAS Visa Scheme

The EES is part of the European Union’s broader plan to implement the ETIAS visa scheme for non-EU arrivals. The ETIAS, which stands for European Travel Information and Authorization System, requires travellers from visa-exempt countries to obtain electronic travel authorization before their trip.

As part of this process, biometric data collection was deemed necessary to further strengthen border control measures.

Data Retention and Privacy

Concerns regarding the collection and storage of biometric data have been addressed by the European Union. According to the legislation, the biometric information collected at the border will be retained for a period of three years after an individual’s last visit to the EU.

After this timeframe, the data will be permanently erased, ensuring compliance with privacy regulations. This data retention period is crucial for potential future investigations or security purposes.

Conclusion

The implementation of the EES is a significant step forward in the EU’s efforts to strengthen border security and improve the efficiency of border control procedures.

While the introduction of the EES may initially cause some inconvenience for travellers, the long-term benefits of the system are clear. The EES will help to keep the EU safe and secure, and it will also make it easier for travellers to enter and exit the Schengen Area.