EU’s New Border System Flags Thousands of Overstays, Faces Implementation Challenges
BRUSSELS – The European Union’s Entry/Exit System (EES), a new biometric passport control system, has already identified over 4,000 individuals who have exceeded the permitted 90-day stay within the Schengen Area since its launch in October 2024, according to a European Commission official. The system, designed to enhance border security and track visitor stays, is still undergoing a phased implementation with full operation expected by April 10, 2026.
The EES has registered approximately 17 million travelers and 30 million border crossings to date, Henrik Nielsen, Director for Schengen, borders and visa at the Commission, told the European Parliament’s home affairs committee on Monday. During the same period, around 16,000 individuals were denied entry for various reasons, including exceeding the 90-day limit, identity fraud, and the use of falsified documents. The system also aided in identifying a victim of human trafficking.
The 90/180-day rule applies to non-EU citizens from countries including the UK, USA, Canada, Australia and New Zealand, allowing them to visit the Schengen Area without a visa. Previously enforced through often inconsistent passport stamps, the EES automatically calculates the length of stay, instantly flagging those who overstay their welcome. Penalties for overstaying can include fines and a ban from future entry.
While the central system is functioning smoothly, the rollout hasn’t been without hiccups. Three member states are currently failing to meet the required 35% registration target due to “technical issues,” Nielsen revealed. Problems with biometric registration equipment and long waiting times at some border crossings, particularly during peak travel periods, have also been reported.
The Commission is considering increasing the number of self-service kiosks and automated gates to alleviate congestion, with funding available through EU funds. Despite calls from airlines and airport organizations for a review of the implementation timeline ahead of the busy summer travel season, Nielsen stated there are currently “no plans to propose any changes or extensions of the flexibility” allowed to member states.
After April, Schengen countries will have a three-month transition period where they can choose not to collect biometric data to ease traffic flow, with a possible extension to September under certain circumstances.
The EES applies to external borders of the Schengen Area – encompassing EU countries (excluding Cyprus and Ireland) as well as Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland – and does not affect travel within the zone. Citizens with EU passports are unaffected by the new system. Non-EU/Schengen citizens residing in an EU or Schengen country are also exempt, needing only to present their passport and residency permit.
eu-LISA Executive Director Tillmann Keber affirmed that the system is now “fully stabilised” and operating effectively at a central level.
However, concerns remain. Recent protests by drivers from the Western Balkans, who fear stricter enforcement of the 90/180 rule will hinder their ability to work in the EU, and warnings from UK transport organizations about potential supply chain disruptions, highlight the system’s potential impact on cross-border workers and trade. The Commission acknowledges the issue but reports that member states are currently resistant to altering the core 90/180-day rule.
