The European Union has again pushed back the introduction of the new Entry and Exit System (ESS); a fingerprint and facial recognition system for non-EU citizens that was set to be deployed at all EU borders.
This most recent delay is only the latest in a long line of setbacks for the system, which was originally meant to be introduced in 2022.
The scheme was initially due to be rolled out in 2022, however it was then rescheduled for May 2023 and then pushed back again until the end of 2023. A date for the system to be fully operational was then set for 10th November 2024, however it has been delayed yet again following countries including Germany, France and the Netherlands announcing that their systems were not ready for deployment.
EU Home Affairs Commissioner Ylva Johansson said: “It’s clear that we’re not going to be ready for the 10 November. We will be going for a phased approach, step by step.”
Luke Petherbridge, Director of Public Affairs at ABTA – The Travel Association said: “It is good to know the full implementation of EES is no longer expected in November, as the industry had been left in limbo waiting for news on when it will start.
“We do still need urgent confirmation and clarification on the next steps of EES; it’s difficult to talk to a customer about a new system without knowing if it will actually be in place for their trip.
“It is also really important the rollout, in whatever form it takes, avoids peak travel periods. ABTA will continue to help members prepare.”
Speaking on the delay of the EU’s Entry/Exit System (EES) launch, Julia Lo Bue-Said, CEO of The Advantage Travel Partnership said: “The confirmed delay by the EU of the infamous EES launch will inevitably give the travel industry a huge sigh of relief as there was significant concern at the preparedness throughout the EU bloc that would inevitably have caused delay and setbacks for so many non-EU passport holder at the borders.
“An inordinate amount of work has already been undertaken across the UK Outbound Travel industry in preparing for these new digital border systems and the numerous delays to the introduction of the scheme are not conducive to good public awareness and this further delay whilst it gives more time to prepare remains another point of confusion.
“Right now, there is very limited public awareness of what this means for anyone expecting to travel to Europe from outside the EU and as we get closer to launch date and key travel periods clear and transparent communication will be vital.
“When a new launch date is announced and the EU are considering the roll out of the system, they should be confident that it remains fit for purpose for the number of non-EU’s traveling through the bloc and not simply another burden for travellers.
“Safety and security are of course paramount, but it is crucial that the government and the travel industry work together to make sure that Brits have a thorough understanding of the new systems, when they come into effect and how they will impact travel.
“We consistently recommend that consumers book through their local travel agent who will be able to ensure they are fully compliant with all travel requirements when they do come into effect, as well receive the best value for flights and accommodation, using their expert knowledge.”
Once implemented, the Entry Exit System (EES) will require non-EU citizens, including individuals from the UK, to register their biometric information at any EU border instead of having their passports stamped.
The aim is to create a digital record that connects passports to biometric data.
Passengers will receive handheld devices, allowing them to register their information from their vehicles. The EES will be implemented at road borders, airports, ports, train stations – including Eurostar services – and across all other external EU borders.