Gradual rollout of EU Entry-Exit System endorsed

Passenger Terminal Today
Kylie Bielby
25 April 2025

The European Union’s Civil Liberties Committee has endorsed plans to gradually roll out the Entry-Exit System (EES) at the EU’s external borders. The system will mark the first time that biometric data, including fingerprints and facial images, are collected systematically at EU external borders.

Civil Liberties Committee MEPs adopted a draft position on the proposed gradual launch of the EES at EU external borders by 54 votes in favor, two against and with 10 abstentions. Once operational the system will register data of third‑country nationals, including biometric data such as facial images and fingerprints, as they enter and leave the Schengen area on short-stay visas. This is intended to improve security, speed up the process and reduce queues. 

By launching the system gradually, and allowing member states to start operating it in stages, the intention is to prevent a simultaneous launch everywhere from compromising the system’s resilience. During the rollout period, the launch could be temporarily suspended if waiting times become too long or there are technical issues, says a report from the Committee. 

Read on:  Gradual rollout of EU Entry-Exit System endorsed - Passenger Terminal Today