The Future of Schengen Area Border Control: The Entry/Exit System

In an era of increasing globalisation and mobility, efficient and secure border management is more important than ever. The Schengen Area, known for its open borders among member countries, is taking a significant step forward with implementing the Entry/Exit System (EES). This innovation is set to enhance security, streamline border crossings, and improve the overall travel experience.
 

What is the Entry/Exit System (EES)?

The Entry/Exit System (EES) is a new electronic system designed to register the entry and exit data of Third Country Nationals (TCNs) travelling to and from the Schengen Area. This system records information such as the traveller’s name, travel document, biometric data (fingerprints and facial images), and the date and place of entry and exit. The EES aims to replace the manual stamping of passports, making the process more efficient and secure.

The EES assists in identifying overstayers and individuals who could be a security risk. Having precise and current data on individuals coming in and out of the Schengen Area enables authorities to enhance monitoring and control of border security. Automating the entry and exit procedures at border crossings decreases the amount of time spent waiting. This is especially advantageous in busy travel periods, guaranteeing a more efficient and quicker journey for travellers. The EES offers dependable information on travel behaviours that can be utilized for statistical analysis and policy development. This information aids in comprehending migration patterns and enhancing tactics for managing borders.
 

How the EES works

The mandatory enforcement of the Entry/Exit System (EES) is seen as a major advancement in border control. Schengen member states are required to adopt advanced smart technologies and improved procedures to protect their common external borders. EES aims to facilitate efficient travel for legitimate third-country nationals (TCNs) while reducing identity fraud and overstayers.

Key technologies for the EES include Automated Border Control (ABC) eGates, Self-Service System Kiosks, and Manual Border Control solutions, which will enhance the efficiency of border control by providing enriched traveller information for a risk-based approach. These technologies will also improve connectivity between neighbouring states and speed up labour-intensive tasks.

Human intuition and risk profiling remain crucial at border crossings. Border control officers use their skills to detect potential risks through travellers’ speech patterns and body language. Automation of repetitive tasks like cross-referencing watchlists and document authentication will allow officers to focus on psychological evaluation and behavioural assessment.

EES will establish a centralised system for member countries to identify people who have overstayed and track the movements of individual travellers within the Schengen area. Advanced biometric technology, cutting-edge document scanning, and AI-powered software will give border control agencies highly accurate tools to verify travellers' credentials and prevent identity fraud.

Having centralised data that is shared among all Schengen states will reduce the opportunity for misconduct. To increase security, data will be encrypted before being transmitted to the eu-LISA systems. Standardised data collection and processing will enable the detection of multiple identities of a single individual over time, making it easier to audit information in case of a data breach.
 

Vision-Box and the Finnish Border Guard

Finland has been a pioneer in implementing the EES, thanks to its collaboration with Vision-Box. Starting in 2019, Vision-Box and the Finnish Border Guard (RAJA) deployed the first EU Entry/Exit System project at Helsinki Airport, the country’s busiest airport. This project aimed to modernise and expand the existing border control infrastructure, ensuring compliance with EU regulations on biometric and biographic data capture.

The implementation included the installation of self-service Automated Border Control (ABC) eGates, Kiosks and Manual Border Control biometric data collection systems orchestrated by Vision-Box Seamless Journey Platform^®. These technologies have significantly improved operational efficiency and security at Helsinki Airport. Travellers can now pass through border checks quickly and securely, thanks to the automated systems that verify their identity using biometric data.

The collaboration between Vision-Box and RAJA has positioned Finland as a role model for EES best practices. The successful deployment of the system has not only reduced waiting times for travellers but also enhanced the accuracy of data collection, helping authorities better manage immigration and identify potential security threats.

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Conclusion

The Schengen Area Entry/Exit System represent a major leap forward in border management. By leveraging advanced technologies, these systems enhance security, streamline processes, and provide valuable data insights. As the world becomes more interconnected, the importance of efficient and secure border management cannot be overstated. The EES is paving the way for a safer and more efficient travel experience for all.