EES: "intelligent borders" in the Schengen zone

THE Input-Output System (EES) is a new procedure that will be implemented by the European Union in the first half of 2023 with the aim of strengthening and protecting the Schengen area's external borders.

Border management and control is a growing concern. This project was therefore a priority for the European Union, to ensure the security of European citizens, combat terrorism and crime, and control migratory flows.

➡️ The creation of an electronic system

This innovative concept has led to the creation of a unified IT system for recording the data of every person traveling in the Schengen zone. We'll call it the Input-Output System (IOS). In particular, it controls the authorized length of stay for each traveler.

➡️ Which passengers are concerned by EES controls?

This new security measure applies to all non-European and third-country nationals. If you have obtained a short or long-stay visa, or even if you are visa-exempt, your data will be recorded in the Entry-Exit system.

➡️ How and by whom are these checks carried out?

Border guards and consular offices control this new procedure. Self-service terminals will enable us to collect your data, under the supervision of a competent agent.

Several data must be entered in the software:

• Date, time and point of passage
• Notification of any refusal of access
• Maximum authorized length of stay
• Exceeding the authorized length of stay

You must be in possession of all your travel documentsThese are required for entry into the area concerned. In most cases, a valid passport is required to enter each territory. You may also be photographed, fingerprinted or asked about your travel documents (visa, date of stay, etc.).

➡️ Which authorities have access to the data?

The national authorities of each EU member state may consult EES to enter, modify or delete data. These authorities may be border authorities or visa and immigration staff. This access will be controlled and must be justified if it concerns prevention, detection or investigation. A request must be notified to EU-LISA.

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