Use new system upon entering the territory Of the European Union it started a few months ago, but those who travel to one of its countries often still have doubts, and often face longer waits than before the system was implemented, although it should be different.
Although she expected that traveling and crossing the border of the European Union would be easier and faster for her with the new system that the Union has started applying for all those who are not its citizens, a few days ago a twenty-year-old woman from Belgrade waited significantly longer at the border and repeatedly left information.
First of all, it is border with Hungary, after several hours of waiting, which is what border crossings with this country are known for, she left her data twice, and then she had to do the same at the airport in Italy, her final destination, even though the system should be centralized.
Twice with the Hungarians
While they were approaching the border crossing with Hungary by car, a police officer of the border police approached them and took fingerprints and photographed the passengers using a mobile device. At that moment, they thought that the procedure was over and they would quickly continue their journey.
However, after an additional hour of waiting in line, upon arrival at the border crossing itself, they had to hand in their passports again, as well as leave their fingerprints and photos, for the second time.
A similar procedure was repeated upon arrival in Italy: passport control, fingerprints and photography, although, according to announcements, the EES should function as a centralized system that enables the exchange of data between member states.
What is EES?
In October 2024, the European Union began the gradual implementation of a new system for crossing external borders for citizens of countries that are not members of the Union.
The Entry/Exit System (EES) is an automated IT system for the registration of third-country nationals traveling to the EU for a short-term stay. The system applies to passengers who are not citizens of the European Union, nor of Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway or Switzerland.
When entering or leaving the Union, travelers are obliged to leave biometric data - fingerprints and a photo of the face - collected by the border police.
The new system began to be implemented on October 12, while its full implementation is expected from April 10, 2025.
Seven euros for travel authorization
At the end of 2026, the implementation of the new European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) should begin.
ETIAS is an electronic travel permit for entering the countries of the Schengen area and several associated European countries.
Before traveling, travelers will have to fill out an online application, leave basic personal information and pay a fee of seven euros. The system then automatically checks the data in EU security databases.
With a valid ETIAS travel authorization, you can enter the territory of these European countries an unlimited number of times for short-term stays, up to 90 days within any 180-day period. However, ETIAS does not guarantee entry into the country. Upon arrival, the border officer will ask for your passport and other documents and check that you meet the entry requirements.
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