Changes are on the horizon for non-EU travelers entering Europe, as two new border control schemes are set to be implemented. However, recent news suggests that there may be a decoupling of the two schemes, potentially leading to staggered introductions.
ETIAS – European Travel Information and Authorisation System
The first scheme is ETIAS, the European Travel Information and Authorisation System. This system will require visitors from outside Europe to apply for a visa-waiver before arriving in participating European countries. Similar to the U.S. ESTA scheme, travelers will need to register before entering Europe, paying a fee of $7. Some travelers, such as those under 18 and over 70, will be exempt from this fee. The authorization will be valid for 3 years, after which travelers must reapply. Citizens from 63 countries, including the U.S., the U.K., Canada, Australia, and Japan, will be affected by this scheme.
EES – Entry and Exit System
The second system, the Entry and Exit System (EES), is designed to use biometric data for entry into Schengen-area countries. Fingerprints and facial scans will be used to pass through electronic gates, and it is intended to eventually replace passport stamps. The EES was originally scheduled to come into effect in 2020 but has faced delays due to technical issues, with a current target of November 2023.
Given the technical challenges and the upcoming Paris Olympic Games in summer 2024, there have been requests to postpone both schemes. France has proposed delaying implementation until after the Games to avoid potential disruptions. Consequently, there is now a consideration to bring in the ETIAS scheme first, with the EES following later.
However, this decoupling poses concerns, as it means travelers will not be checked against all available databases upon entry until both systems are fully operational. A decision on whether to proceed with the decoupling is expected in October. If accepted, ETIAS could be introduced by May 2024, while the EES would follow once the first scheme is functioning smoothly. These changes will impact non-EU travelers and aim to enhance border control and security in the region.
Cyprus and Ireland will be part of the scheme at the initial phase
The new border control scheme will involve almost all the EU member countries. Among the 26 countries in the Schengen area that will participate in the scheme are Austria, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland. However, a few EU countries, including Ireland and Cyprus, will not be part of the scheme in its initial phase.
