EU Schengen Biometric Border Checks Likely Delayed Again

The European Union’s much-anticipated Entry/Exit System (EES) — designed to digitize and tighten border controls across the Schengen Area — may face another delay as several key member states signal they are not prepared for the planned November 10, 2025 rollout.

According to reports from Euro News, Germany, France, and the Netherlands have warned that critical infrastructure needed to implement the new biometric checks is still not fully operational. These concerns include insufficient on-site testing and incomplete readiness at major border crossings — issues that risk paralyzing traffic at some of Europe’s busiest entry points.

What Is the Schengen Entry/Exit System (EES)?

The EES is a major upgrade in the EU’s border management strategy. First introduced in 2022 and delayed multiple times, the system aims to replace manual passport stamping for non-EU travellers with automated biometric checks, including facial and fingerprint scans. The goal is to improve security, identify overstayers, prevent identity fraud, and streamline data collection across the bloc.

Under the system, travellers from countries like the UK — who currently benefit from visa-free entry — will need to scan their passports and biometrics at digital kiosks when entering or exiting the Schengen Area. The collected data will be stored for three years and will not affect EU citizens or long-term visa holders.

EU Home Affairs Commissioner Ylva Johansson has remained optimistic, stating during a recent visit to EU-LISA (the agency overseeing EES implementation), “Everything is coming together. We will know exactly who enters the Schengen area with a foreign passport… and the EES will make it harder for criminals, terrorists or Russian spies to use fake passports.”

Travel Disruption Concerns Mount

Despite the Commission’s confidence, European and UK officials are sounding alarms about real-world complications, particularly at high-traffic crossings such as Dover and the Eurotunnel.

The French government, responsible for conducting Schengen border checks at UK departure points, is reportedly coordinating with British authorities to prepare for potential bottlenecks. Long vehicle queues, particularly for cars, buses, and freight trucks, remain a significant concern.

UK Transport Minister Guy Opperman recently confirmed a proposed “six-month soft launch” to ease travellers into the new system and allow adjustments to reduce congestion as needed.

EES Is Just One Piece of the Puzzle

The EES is part of a broader digital transformation of Europe’s external border policy. Another major component, the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), is expected to go live in 2025. ETIAS will function similarly to the U.S. ESTA, requiring visa-exempt non-EU nationals to obtain online travel clearance before entering the Schengen Area.

Initially slated for 2023, ETIAS has also faced repeated delays and is now expected to launch roughly six months after the EES — creating further challenges for EU states and travellers to navigate overlapping rule changes.

Implementation Still Uncertain

While the EES promises long-term efficiency and enhanced security, member state resistance, lack of readiness, and fears of logistical chaos continue to cast doubt over the November 2025 implementation timeline. With Germany, France, and the Netherlands leading the call for delay, the EU may once again be forced to postpone.

Source: Euro News