The EES (Entry/Exit System) and ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) are automated computer systems for recording and controlling personal data of nationals from non-EU countries crossing the external borders of the Schengen Area.
Neither system is currently operational, with implementation planned for 2025.
The European Union and Management of External Borders
These European initiatives are part of a set of measures aimed at improving the management of the external borders of Schengen member states.
The future automated systems aim to enhance the effectiveness and reliability of controls at the external borders of the Schengen Area, enabling member states and EU agencies to ensure better information sharing to combat cross-border crime and terrorism while achieving more effective border management, all under strict respect for fundamental rights and European data protection legislation.
EES (Entry/Exit System): A New Automated System for Recording Data of Non-EU Nationals Entering the Schengen Area
The EES is an automated digital data collection device for personal information of nationals from non-EU countries, whether or not they are subject to visa requirements, which will be implemented upon entry and exit from the Schengen Area.
Specifically, the EES replaces the manual stamping of passports for third-country nationals and will allow for electronic monitoring of entry, exit, denial of entry, and duration of stay for nationals from non-EU countries crossing the external borders of the Schengen Area for short stays (up to 90 days within a 180-day period).
Who Is It Aimed At?
It is directed at nationals of non-EU countries subject to short-stay visa requirements and ETIAS, who will be staying for a short duration (up to 90 days within a 180-day period) in the territory of a Schengen member state.
What Personal Data Will Be Recorded?
- Date and time of entry and exit.
- Place of entry and exit.
- Last name(s) and first name(s) of the national.
- Passport number of the national.
- Photograph of the national.
- Fingerprint of the national.
- It will also record any denial of entry for a short stay.
ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System): A New Prerequisite for Visa-Exempt Short-Stay Travelers Accessing European Territory
ETIAS is a travel authorization, not a visa, established by the European Commission. It will be required by the 30 member states of the expanded Schengen Area. It is a completely electronic system, similar to the United States’ Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), designed to reinforce controls on foreign travelers in the EU, with the goal of detecting potential threats.
It is scheduled to go into service in 2025.
Who Is It Aimed At?
ETIAS will be directed at nationals from approximately sixty non-EU countries that benefit from visa exemption for short stays when traveling to the expanded Schengen Area.
This travel authorization will have a maximum duration of 90 days. Affected third-country nationals must apply for it prior to traveling to European territory: the authorization will be valid for three years for multiple entries or until the expiration date of the travel document used to make the application.
Applications will be made online by completing a simple form. The travel authorization will generally be issued within a maximum period of 96 hours from the date of application and payment of a fee of €7. If additional investigation is required, this processing period may be extended.
It should be noted that no fee will be required from third-country nationals under 18 years old, over 70 years old, family members of EU nationals, or third-country nationals with the right to free movement within the EU.
List of Countries Affected by ETIAS: Who should apply – European Union (europa.eu)
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