European Parliament Approves Electronic Border Controls
The European Parliament approved the gradual introduction of electronic border controls on Tuesday. If EU member states approve the plans, the controls could start in autumn, reports 24brussels.
The entry-exit system is an automated control system designated for checking non-EU nationals entering or leaving the European Union. Travellers must present their passport, supply their departure date, and undergo fingerprint and facial recognition scanning upon arrival.
The launch of this system has faced multiple delays, the most recent occurring in October last year due to readiness issues in Germany, France, and the Netherlands. In Belgium, the Chamber cleared the system in March 2023.
In May, Member States and Parliament reached a consensus to roll out the system over 180 days, allowing time for technical troubleshooting. After the first month, 10 percent of border crossings are to be recorded, a figure that will escalate to include all travellers from outside the EU by the six-month mark.
‘As soon as possible’
During the transitional phase, Member States will continue to stamp travel documents. They may temporarily suspend the system in exceptional circumstances, such as prolonged queues.
On Tuesday, 572 MEPs voted in favor of the system, while 42 voted against it and 67 abstained. “Parliament has now done its part and ensured that the entry-exit system can be used at the EU’s external borders as soon as possible,” stated rapporteur Assita Kanko in a press release.
The European Commission is now responsible for determining the implementation timeline. Kanko had previously indicated that October appears to be a realistic target date.
