European Union building in Brussels. Photo: Shutterstock The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) of the European Union, essentially an electronic visa, will take effect 6 months after the launch of the Entry/Exit System (EES) among EU countries.
The ETIAS, originally planned to launch in mid-2025 after several delays, will take effect 6 months after the Entry/Exit System (EES) is operational later this year.
Meanwhile, the EES still does not have an approved start date, with its official website stating it is scheduled to begin in 2025.
The EES was supposed to launch on November 10, 2024, but was postponed after EU member states expressed unpreparedness for the launch date.
The delay arises from logistical and technical issues. EU officials, including Commissioner for Home Affairs, Ylva Johansson, suggested a gradual rollout of the EES. This gradual approach will help member states adapt for a smoother launch of ETIAS.
Once ETIAS is active, travelers from visa-exempt countries like Israel will need to obtain electronic authorization before entering the Schengen Area. This system is intended to enhance security and streamline border checks.
ETIAS will affect millions of travelers from visa-exempt countries who previously needed only a passport to enter the EU. Under the new system, travelers must complete an online application, provide personal details, and pay a fee of 7 euros.
The system will check applications against EU security databases to identify risks before travelers reach the border.
ETIAS works with the EES to add another layer of screening before travel. Together, these systems aim to reinforce border security while maintaining ease of travel for legitimate visitors.
Approved ETIAS applications will generally remain valid for three years, making repeat visits easier for frequent travelers to Europe.
The EES, an automated border system, will replace manual passport stamping for non-EU travelers. The system will collect biometric data, including fingerprints and facial images, to create a digital record of each visitor's entry and exit. This data will be stored for three years and shared among Schengen member states.
While the EES aims to improve security and efficiency, it may cause temporary disruptions during rollout. Travelers will need to adjust to new procedures, including biometric data collection and longer processing times at borders.
The launch of both ETIAS and EES will alter how short-term visitors and long-term migrants are processed at EU borders.
As mentioned, the EES's start date has yet to be set, and only six months after it takes effect will the ETIAS system also be implemented. Until then, we will continue to travel to EU countries as usual.