09
Dec 2024

The European Union’s European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) will start six months after the Entry/Exit System (EES) launches in 2025. This schedule is part of a larger plan to update and strengthen EU border controls.

However, delays will lead to travelers preparing for major adjustments.

ETIAS launch further complicated by delays

The ETIAS, originally planned to launch in mid-2025, will now begin six months after the Entry-Exit System (EES) becomes operational in 2025.

According to ETIAS’ frequently asked questions (FAQs) on its official website: “It is expected that the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) will be operational six months after EES.”

Meanwhile, the EES does not yet have a confirmed start date. Its official website states that it is due to start in 2025.

The EES was supposed to launch on November 10th, 2024, but was postponed after EU member states expressed unpreparedness for the launch date.

Once the ETIAS is active, travelers from visa-exempt countries must get electronic authorization before entering the Schengen Area. This system is designed to improve security and simplify border checks.

The delay is due to logistical and technical issues. EU officials, including Home Affairs Commissioner Ylva Johansson, have proposed a phased rollout for the EES.

This gradual approach will help member states adjust and support the smoother launch of the ETIAS.

What ETIAS brings to travel

The ETIAS will impact millions of travelers from visa-exempt countries who previously only needed a passport to enter the EU. Under the new system, travelers must fill out an online application, share personal details, and pay a EUR7 fee.

The system will check applications against EU security databases to identify risks before travelers arrive at the border.

The ETIAS works with the EES to add another layer of pre-travel screening. Together, these systems aim to strengthen border security while keeping travel straightforward for legitimate visitors.

Approved ETIAS applications will generally remain valid for three years, making repeat visits easier for frequent travelers.

(Image courtesy of Tobias Rehbein via Pixabay)

EES delays spark travel, migration concerns

The EES, an automated border system, will replace manual passport stamping for non-EU travelers. It will collect biometric data, including fingerprints and facial images, to create a digital record of each visitor’s entry and exit.

This data will be stored for three years and shared among Schengen member states.

While the EES aims to improve security and efficiency, it may cause temporary disruptions during the rollout. Travelers will need to adjust to new procedures, including biometric data collection and potentially longer processing times at borders.

Travelers brace for changes with ETIAS, EES

The launch of the ETIAS and EES will change how short-term visitors and long-term migrants interact with EU borders.

Tourists and business travelers may face delays at first as they learn the new systems, but these changes should eventually make travel smoother.

For migrants, automated processes could make entry and re-entry easier. However, collecting and storing biometric data raises privacy concerns that the EU must address to earn public trust.

(Image courtesy of Jay Clark via Unsplash)

EU border systems test resources of member states

The EU is taking a careful approach to border management by gradually rolling out these systems.

Policymakers must make sure member states have the resources and infrastructure to handle the transition. Tackling technical and logistical issues early is key to the success of ETIAS and EES.

These systems show the EU’s commitment to improving security while supporting mobility. Achieving this balance will need continued cooperation among member states.

Modernizing EU border controls

The ETIAS and EES mark a major step in updating EU border controls. Although the process has taken time, these systems aim to improve security and efficiency for millions of travelers.

With 2025 nearing, travelers, migrants, and policymakers need to get ready for these changes to fully benefit from the advancements.