The European Union has officially announced the launch date for its new Entry/Exit System (EES), marking a significant step in modernising border management across the bloc. During a recent speech at eu-LISA, European Commissioner for Home Affairs Ylva Johansson confirmed that the EES will go live on November 10, 2024.
While there had been speculation about this launch date across various media outlets, this is the first time the EU has formally set a specific date for the system’s implementation. Commissioner Johansson emphasised the thorough discussions and legal preparations that led to this decision, stating, “After intense dialogues with Member States, with you, with the different stakeholders – I have decided that the Entry/Exit System will enter into operations on the 10th of November. Different steps are legally required before the Commission could take the formal decision, but I am proud to reveal today that the 10th of November is the target day.”
In addition to announcing the official launch date, Commissioner Johansson disclosed that the system is currently undergoing final testing phases.
Impact on Travelers
Once the EES is operational, it will impact approximately 700 million travelers who visit Europe annually. The system is designed to enhance security for 450 million European citizens by automating the registration of foreign visitors entering and exiting the EU. Johansson noted, “700 million people will be affected by your work. Because last year more than 700 million tourists traveled to Europe. And 450 million Europeans will sleep safer thanks to your work.”
Commissioner Johansson also praised eu-LISA’s efforts over the past decade, acknowledging that their work has been essential in bringing the EES to fruition.
What Is the Entry/Exit System (EES)?
The Entry/Exit System is an automated IT solution that will record the details of non-EU travelers entering the EU for short stays, whether or not they require a visa. The EES will replace the current manual passport-stamping process, capturing data such as travelers’ names, travel document types, biometric information (including fingerprints and facial images), and the dates and locations of their entry and exit.
Beyond tracking entries and exits, the EES will also log any entry refusals. The primary objectives of this system include modernising border control procedures, preventing irregular migration, and protecting European citizens. Additionally, the EES will help authorities identify individuals who overstay their permitted visits or attempt to enter the EU with false documents.
All foreign travelers entering the EU will need to register with the EES, and their data will be securely stored for three years. This means that once registered, travelers will not need to go through the registration process every time they visit or leave the EU.
