Entry-Exit System: European Parliament greenlights reinforcement of Schengen’s external borders

Today, the European Parliament gave its strong backing to the gradual introduction of the Entry-Exit System (EES) at the external borders of the Schengen Area. MEP Assita Kanko, who serves as the Parliament’s rapporteur on the dossier, is convinced that this automated system for tracking entries and exits will significantly boost the safety of EU citizens. She describes it as “a crucial step forward in the fight against illegal migration and for the security of our citizens.” “This new system of automated border checks will make our borders smarter, faster, and more secure.” The EES will be implemented across all Schengen countries.

The EES will automatically register data of third-country nationals entering or leaving the Schengen Area on a short-stay visa. This includes their name, type of travel document, and certain biometric data such as facial images and fingerprints. All Schengen member states will be able to consult the system in real time, replacing the current manual passport stamping process. Combined with the further digitalisation of procedures at Schengen’s external borders, the EES paves the way for faster border checks and shorter queues at airports. “The security of Europeans is not a minor detail—it’s a fundamental right. With this system, we’ll finally be able to efficiently track who enters and exits our territory. No more gaps in our controls,” says Kanko.

Faster, safer, fairer

This advanced IT system aims not only to enhance security within the EU but also to streamline and speed up border control procedures, reducing waiting times—particularly at airports. Eventually, the new system will fully replace manual passport stamps, which are not only time-consuming but also unreliable for tracking border crossings. Furthermore, the current system makes it virtually impossible to identify travellers who overstay their permitted stay. With the EES, police forces will be able to work more efficiently. “This system means less time wasted for legitimate travellers and more firepower for our law enforcement services.”

Combating crime and illegal migration

“The EES will be a powerful tool in the fight against illegal migration,” says Kanko. “In recent years, security risks for the EU—and therefore for its citizens—have only increased. This new system is now more important than ever. The need for better border protection has grown significantly. Thanks to the EES, monitoring the flow of people at the EU’s external borders will become much easier. Our borders will be better protected, without the need for additional manpower.”

Broad support and phased rollout

The EES will be rolled out gradually starting in autumn 2025, with a transition period of 180 days. The launch is scheduled to begin in October, outside of peak travel periods. “This will help prevent excessive pressure on the current system. If waiting times grow too long or unexpected technical issues arise, implementation of the EES can be temporarily paused,” Kanko explains.

“I’m especially pleased with the broad support we’ve received in Parliament. We’ve done our part. Now it’s up to the Member States to take responsibility and bring the system to life on the ground. Anyone who values Schengen and takes the safety of Europeans seriously cannot stand in the way of this,” Kanko concludes.