Crossing the border with Poland has become more difficult: what you need to know about the EES system
21 October 05:22
At the Krakivets checkpoint on the Ukrainian-Polish border, a significant slowdown in traffic is being recorded. As of 18:10, about 50 cars are waiting in line to leave. This was reported by the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine, "Komersant Ukrainian" reports
The reason for the delays is the launch of the new European entry and exit registration system EES (Entry/Exit System).
“At the Krakivets checkpoint, traffic may be slowed down due to the launch of the new EES system. When planning your trips, we advise you to take into account the possible increase in waiting time and choose less busy destinations if possible,” the State Border Guard Service said.
What is the EES system and why does it cause queues?
The EES is a new electronic system for recording crossings of the Schengen external borders. It replaces traditional passport stamps and automatically records
- date and time of entry/exit,
- the checkpoint,
- the length of stay of foreigners in the EU.
The system was introduced to strengthen security and combat illegal migration.
How EES works
When you first enter the EU, you will need to provide your personal data. Border guards will take a photo of your face and/or scan your fingerprints. This information will be stored in a digital file.
The process can be faster if you register some of your data in advance using a self-service terminal (if available at the border crossing point) or a mobile application (if available in the country of arrival).
Children under 12 years of age will not have their fingerprints scanned.
As the system is being implemented gradually by Member States, the time of your first contact with EES will depend on your travel route and date of entry. For example, Germany will start with a small airport in Stuttgart and later expand the system to Frankfurt, one of the largest aviation hubs in Europe.
In addition to personal data, the system will electronically record entry and exit dates. If you exceed the authorized period of stay, the system will detect and register this violation.
If you are denied entry, this information will also be entered into the system.
What do border guards advise
Plan your travels taking into account possible delays.
Choose alternative checkpoints with less traffic.
Prepare documents in advance and be ready for biometric control.
The introduction of EES is the first stage before the launch of another system, ETIAS, which will require pre-authorization for entry to the EU for third-country nationals, including Ukrainians, traveling without visas.
