The EES is designed to enhance the security and efficiency of Schengen area borders by registering biometric data
The European Union’s long-awaited biometric Entry-Exit System (EES) is now scheduled for a phased six-month rollout starting in October, following a key endorsement by the Civil Liberties Committee of the European Parliament. The committee backed a draft position supporting a gradual implementation plan, easing pressure on member states still finalising technical preparations.
The draft position was adopted with strong backing—54 votes in favour, two against, and 10 abstentions. Lawmakers expressed concern that a simultaneous, bloc-wide launch could disrupt operations at border crossings, given that not all member states are fully prepared. Instead, the plan introduces staggered targets: within 30 days of launch, at least 10 per cent of border crossings should be covered, increasing to 35 per cent within 90 days.
The EES is designed to enhance the security and efficiency of Schengen area borders by registering biometric data—facial images and fingerprints—of travellers holding short-stay visas. The system aims to help reduce rule violations and overstay cases by improving tracking of entries and exits.
The Committee’s vote also clears the way for formal negotiations with the European Council, which had previously supported a six-month introduction period in March. These discussions are set to begin on 12 May.
“In the eight years since the EES legislation was adopted, security threats have only increased, meaning that the system is now more important than ever,” said Assita Kanko, Belgian MEP and Rapporteur. “Unfortunately, the system is still not operational, as not all member states are as yet ready for its full launch. With this gradual roll-out, we aim to get the system up and running as soon as realistically possible, and I’m glad about the broad support in Parliament for my position.”
Kanko also emphasised that delays from individual countries should not impede collective progress. She told The Connexion, “The slowest pupils” would not be allowed to “hold the whole class back,” referring to France, Germany and the Netherlands, which have yet to confirm readiness for full implementation.
France, for instance, is currently updating its Parafe biometric e-gates used at airports and Eurotunnel terminals to ensure legal foreign residents are not unnecessarily flagged for EES registration. However, French airports may face additional delays due to potential regulatory hurdles. The Union des Aéroports Français (UAF) noted that decisions from the CNIL, France’s data protection authority, or the Conseil d’État, could complicate the rollout.
Beyond the EU, Switzerland—though not an EU member but part of the Schengen area—is also moving toward biometric border controls. Geneva Airport has installed biometric hardware from SITA but has kept the functionality inactive pending regulatory approval. The airport’s CTO, Massimo Gentile, told Swiss broadcaster RTS that plans are in motion to introduce biometric check-ins across all passenger touchpoints, replacing traditional document checks.
Zurich Airport, meanwhile, already operates face biometric gates at customs and has been working with Secunet technology on EES readiness since 2022. Broader national implementation in Switzerland, however, would require legislative amendments to the Civil Aviation Act, which are not expected until late 2026.
As the EU prepares for the partial activation of one of its most ambitious border security initiatives, the success of the rollout may ultimately hinge on whether member states can synchronise their technical capabilities with evolving regulatory standards.
