Europe finally moves forward with digital border control

After years of deadlock, a political agreement has finally been reached on the implementation of the European Entry/Exit System (EES). MEP Assita Kanko, the lead negotiator for the European Parliament, called it “a breakthrough where security, responsibility, and common sense come together.”

From Promise to Action

The new system will replace the outdated passport stamp with a digital registration of everyone entering or leaving the Schengen Area. Facial scans and fingerprints of non-EU travellers will also be recorded to prevent identity fraud. This will finally allow Europe to take action against so-called overstayers—people who remain beyond the expiry of their visa.

“The system was promised in the wake of the 2015 and 2016 attacks but got bogged down for years in technical chaos,” said Kanko. “Today, we’re showing resolve: no more border chaos, but a controlled and phased rollout.”

Phased Rollout Starting in October

Member states will be able to activate the system starting this autumn, within a 180-day window. There will be clear agreements on data protection, reporting obligations, and a temporary emergency brake in case of overload. Germany, France, and the Netherlands still need to finalise their preparations.

“It’s now up to the member states to take responsibility,” Kanko concluded. “Europe has waited long enough for this step toward greater security and order at its external borders.”