EU Introduces Automated Border Control for Non-EU Travellers

October 13, 2025: The European Union’s Entry/Exit System (EES), launched on 12 October, introduces automated border controls for non-EU travellers, including Indian citizens, entering the Schengen Area. It replaces manual passport stamping with biometric registration to monitor short stays of up to 90 days within 180. Non-EU nationals visiting the 29 Schengen countries, such as France and Germany, are affected. The rollout commenced yesterday, with full implementation expected by April 2026. Travellers provide fingerprints, facial images, and passport details at borders, stored for three years to track entries and overstays.

Mandated by EU Regulation 2017/2226, the EES bolsters security and enforces the 90/180-day rule for visa-exempt travellers like Indians. Managed by eu-LISA, it records data in a centralised database, cross-referenced with Interpol and Schengen systems. First-time entrants submit biometrics at kiosks, adding 5–10 minutes; subsequent visits reuse data for three years. EU citizens and non-Schengen countries like Ireland are exempt.

The phased rollout began at select borders, with 10% adopting biometrics by December 2025. Initial reports from Croatia and Switzerland indicate smooth operations, but busy hubs like Paris CDG may face queues. Qatar Airways advises extra time, and Sweden’s Arlanda airport trials a pre-registration app. From 2026, ETIAS will require a €7 online authorisation for Indians. Travellers need e-passports, should monitor stays via the EU app to avoid penalties, and benefit from GDPR-protected data privacy.

Source and Image Credits: newsonair

Download Catholic Connect App for Daily News Updates: 

Android: Click here to download

iOS: Click here to download