In the fall, Ukrainians will enter the EU under new rules
10 July 05:29
The European Parliament has approved the introduction of a new entry and exit system at the external borders of the European Union. The new system will begin to be deployed in the fall, with 180 days to do so. This is reported on the website of the European Parliament, "Komersant Ukrainian" informs
The new system, once launched, will register the following data: traveler’s name, type of travel document, time and place of entry and exit. In addition, biometric data, such as facial images and fingerprints, will be registered.
The system will be used by all citizens of countries entitled to visa-free travel to the bloc (including Ukrainians) and citizens of visa countries who have a short-term Schengen visa in their passports.
What is the EES system and who does it apply to?
The Entry/Exit System (EES ) is a digital database that will record
- the name and surname of the traveler;
- type of travel document (passport);
- time and place of border crossing;
- biometric data: face photo and fingerprints.
The EES will cover all non-EU travelers, including Ukrainians who enjoy the right to travel without a visa, as well as foreigners with short-term Schengen visas.
However, the system will not apply to EU citizens and long-term visa holders who have the right to reside in the EU.
Why is the new system being introduced?
The European Parliament notes that the EES has the following key objectives
- improving security at the EU’s external borders;
- reducing the time of border control;
- reducing queues at border crossing points;
- control over violations of the Schengen area.
After the launch of the EES, physical stamping of passports will be canceled. Instead, all data will be recorded in electronic format and will be available in real time to the border services of the Schengen member states.
Technical failures are possible – the system may be suspended
During the launch period, the system will be temporarily suspended in case of excessive queues or technical failures. Procedures will be adapted to ensure security and avoid chaos at the checkpoints.
What does this mean for Ukrainians?
For Ukrainian citizens traveling to the EU under the visa-free regime, the format of passing control will change. There will be no more stamps in the passport – they will be replaced by digital records and biometrics.
Now, to enter the Schengen area, you will need to:
- present a passport;
- provide fingerprints and a photo of the face (only once – at the first entry);
- confirm the purpose of the trip, as before.
This is the first ever practice of systematic collection of biometric data at the EU’s external borders.
