A European Parliament committee has approved the gradual rollout of an automatic border control system for travellers from non-EU countries.
The Entry-Exit System (EES) is designed to automate checks for third-country nationals entering or leaving the EU, requiring them to provide biometric data, including fingerprints and facial scans, alongside their passport and departure date.
The system’s implementation has faced delays, most recently in October last year, as three EU Member States—Germany, France, and the Netherlands—were not ready. Belgium approved the system in March 2023.
"Reliance on paper stamps at borders, while criminals operate digitally, is unacceptable," stated rapporteur and Belgian MEP Assita Kanko (N-VA/ECR) in a press release. "The EES is not just a security measure but also aids legal travellers more efficiently, with fewer queues and increased certainty."
The committee agreed to a "pragmatic approach" proposed by Kanko: a phased launch allowing prepared member states to begin implementation, with a mandatory adoption by all states within six months. In March, member states had also agreed to this phased introduction over the same period.
The committee’s vote stood at 60 in favour, three against, and three abstentions, enabling negotiations with the Council (i.e. Member States) for a final agreement. Given the committee’s strong support, the full parliament is not expected to object, allowing talks to commence.
Kanko noted that the first trilogue is scheduled for 12 May. "Collaboration has been constructive so far. If plans proceed smoothly, the new rules could be implemented by October. Three Member States still have tasks to complete, but we are maintaining pressure," she added.
