EU introduces biometric borders: entry only after facial and fingerprint recognition

The EU is introducing biometric borders. Starting on October 12, the new digital entry and exit system EES (Entry/Exit System) will be gradually rolled out. According to Euronews, this requires visitors from third countries to provide fingerprints and a facial image when entering the Schengen area.

According to Magnus Brunner, Commissioner for Home Affairs and Migration, the aim is to increase the efficiency of border controls, combat illegal migration, and detect crime and terrorism.

The system applies to short stays of up to 90 days within a period of 180 days. However, experts point to potential risks. Julia Behrens from the EU Agency for Fundamental Rights emphasized that the digital system may be more practical for travelers than stamps in passports, but at the same time raises questions of data protection and an imbalance of power between the individual and the state.

In addition, biometric technology is less accurate for people with different skin colors. Fingerprints are taken from children aged 12 and over, but facial images are taken from everyone, including infants.

In the future, the EES system will be supplemented by ETIAS—an electronic travel authorization for citizens of 59 countries that have a visa-free travel agreement with the EU. Registration will cost around 20 euros and be valid for three years—or until the passport on which the authorization was issued expires.

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