Mon Oct 13 01:40:00 UTC 2025: Here are two versions, a short summary and a longer one mimicking a news article style:
**Short Summary:**
The European Union is launching its Entry/Exit System (EES) on October 12th to track non-EU citizens entering the Schengen area. The system captures biometric data (fingerprints and facial images) to monitor entry and exit dates, prevent overstays, and enhance security. Travelers will register at self-service kiosks upon their first entry. A gradual rollout is planned over six months, with full implementation by April 9th. Passport stamping will continue during the rollout phase. Data is stored for three years, and re-registration is needed if no travel occurs within that period.
**News Article Style:**
**EU’s New Entry/Exit System Set to Launch, Bringing Biometric Scans to Border Crossings**
Brussels – After years of planning and numerous delays, the European Union’s Entry/Exit System (EES) is scheduled to go live on October 12th, ushering in a new era of border control within the Schengen Area. The system will track non-EU citizens entering and exiting 29 countries (most EU nations, plus Switzerland, Iceland, and Norway) using biometric data.
The aim is to enhance security, reduce illegal immigration, and prevent visitors from overstaying their permitted 90-day limit within any 180-day period.
**How It Works:**
Upon their first entry, non-EU travelers will have their fingerprints and facial image captured, along with passport data. Self-service kiosks have been installed at border crossings to facilitate this initial registration. Subsequent visits will involve biometric checks against the existing data. Travelers with biometric passports may be able to use e-gates, where available.
**Gradual Rollout:**
To avoid initial bottlenecks, the implementation will be staggered over six months. Member states will be required to register a percentage of travelers, starting at 10% after 30 days, and reaching 100% by April 9th, 2025. Even with the EES, passport stamping will continue until the system is fully operational.
**What to Expect:**
Officials acknowledge potential delays during the initial rollout. The system records entry and exit dates, passport information, and any past refusals of entry. Travelers will also be asked about their accommodations and financial resources. Data is stored for three years.
**Impact on Travelers:**
The EES applies to all non-EU citizens, including British citizens post-Brexit. Children under 12 are exempt from fingerprinting but must still go through the registration process.
The EU spokesperson has advised that if a traveler’s passport expires, they don’t need to re-register, and the system will be updated with new passport details.
The EU is also planning to launch the ETIAS pre-travel visa waiver, similar to the US ESTA, likely by the end of next year. Overstaying the visa has sanctions, including fines, deportation and EU-wide bans.
First Piper 