EU’s new Entry/Exit System for Third Country Nationals creates challenges, upstream uncertainties

Yesterday the European Union officially launched the Entry/Exit System (EES) for Third Country Nationals (TCNs).  The new regulation will have a six-month implementation period.  It is part of a broader global shift towards using biometric border checks to verify travellers’ identities and credentials.

Following below are comments on the new EES by Director for Borders at SITA, Andy Smith.

“The introduction of the EU Entry/Exit System (EES) marks one of the biggest operational changes at Europe’s air borders in decades. Border officers now need to collect biometric data, check passports, and register Third Country Nationals (TCNs) directly into a central EU system. For airports, this means managing new passenger flows and making sure these checks don’t cause longer queues or missed connections, especially at peak times.

 

Every Member State must follow the same EU border management regulations, operational guidance from Frontex, and technical standards set by eu-LISA. This ensures that the right data is captured securely and that national systems can talk to the EU’s central database. It’s a complex transition that requires preparation, coordination, and reliable EES technology to keep things moving smoothly.

 

The EU’s phased EES rollout may help reduce pressure in the early days, but it also creates uncertainty. Not all European airports will switch on at the same time, and passengers, airlines, and airports need clear information to plan accordingly. Communicating rollout plans early and clearly, and encouraging the use of EES pre-registration apps where available, will be key to minimizing confusion and ensuring smoother journeys.

 

This is why it’s crucial to work closely with governments and border agencies to translate these rules and best practices into practical, workable solutions on the ground. SITA’s EES border management system, for example, builds on technology developed through partnerships with more than 75 governments worldwide. It connects securely to the EU’s central platform and allows travelers to register their biometrics quickly at self-service kiosks and eGates. This helps reduce queues for passengers and frees up border officers to focus on the checks that matter most.

 

The EU Entry/Exit System is also part of a broader global shift towards biometric border checks. By preparing early, using proven technology, and communicating clearly with the entire travel ecosystem, governments can reduce disruption while enhancing security. Our role is to support them every step of the way.”