Manually stamping passports is “time-consuming and does not allow for the systematic detection of illegal immigrants,” the EU said.
advertisement
Passport stamps are a badge of honor for many travelers and provide a fond record of their adventures.
However, once you enter the Schengen Area, that will soon become a thing of the past.
The new Automated Entrance System (EES), due to be introduced on 10 November 2024, will digitally register non-EU visitors and eliminate the need for physical stamps.
“The EES will replace the current system of manual stamping of passports, which is time-consuming, does not provide reliable data on border crossings and does not allow for the systematic detection of irregular migrants,” a statement from the European Commission's Department of Migration and Home Affairs said.
What is the EU Entry and Exit System (EES)?
The EES will be an automated IT system for registering travellers from third countries holding visa-exempt or short-stay visas.
Every time a person crosses a border outside the EU, the system registers their name, the type of travel document, their biometric data (fingerprints and facial images), as well as the dates and places of entry and exit. It also records any refusals of entry.
Automated border checks and self-service systems are expected to make the EU safer and make the process faster for travellers, but the airline industry and countries have warned that a lack of preparation could lead to initial problems when the systems are rolled out.
It was originally scheduled to be launched in 2022, but officials announced it would be launched on November 10 this year.
Under the new system, travellers who wish to enter the Schengen area visa-free will be required to obtain online travel authorisation through the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), which will be phased in once the EES is operational.
Passport stamp still required before EES starts
Brits have been warned that after Britain leaves the EU they will have to get their passports stamped when travelling in and out of the Schengen area.
This is proof that you have not stayed in the country for more than the 90 day visa-free limit within any 180 day period.
This is usually done automatically at security checks and is even a small ray of hope for those who love to travel after Brexit.
