EU launches full operation of Entry/Exit System to enhance border security

The European Union announced on Friday the full operation of the Entry/Exit System across all Schengen Area countries, marking a significant milestone in efforts to strengthen European border security. According to a statement by the European Commission the new system is an advanced technological framework designed to digitally record the entry and exit of non-EU nationals travelling to 29 European countries for short stays. It collects biometric and personal data as well as travel information, replacing the traditional passport stamping system. The system provides accurate and reliable data on border crossings, with the ability to detect overstays, as well as systematically identify cases of document fraud and identity misuse. The system began its gradual rollout in October 2025. Since then, more than 52 million entries and exits have been recorded, while over 27,000 individuals have been refused entry, including around 700 persons identified as potential security threats to the Union. The European Commission confirmed that, with the system now fully operational, registering a traveler takes an average of 70 seconds, which it described as a short duration given the significant security benefits. It added that the system is now deployed at all external border crossing points of the EU, noting continued coordination with member states to ensure effective implementation. Executive Vice-President of the European Commission for Technological Sovereignty, Security and Democracy, Henna Virkkunen said the system represents a major step forward in strengthening the security of the EU and its citizens, adding that it equips external borders with modern and advanced systems capable of identifying risks in real time and addressing overstays more effectively. For his part, Commissioner for Internal Affairs and Migration Magnus Brunner said the system marks a major achievement in modernizing and reinforcing the EU's external border security, noting that it enables authorities to know who enters and leaves the Union, when and where, stressing that the security of citizens remains a top priority. The system is expected to bring noticeable changes to the travel experience to Europe, as non-EU travelers will be required to complete additional digital procedures, which may affect processing times, compliance checks and travel planning. In this context, reports have warned of possible delays and long queues at some airports, particularly during peak travel periods and holidays, following technical issues and lengthy waiting times recorded during the phased rollout. The European aviation and airport sector indicated that waiting times could reach several hours in some cases, calling for temporary flexibility to partially suspend the system during the summer 2026 season to avoid major operational disruptions.