EU to Eliminate Passport Stamping for Schengen Area Travelers

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The European Union (EU) is set to eliminate the traditional practice of stamping passports for non-EU travelers, replacing it with a new automated system. Starting on November 10, 2024, visitors will be digitally registered using the European Entry/Exit System (EES), marking the end of an era for those who collect passport stamps as souvenirs of their travels.

“The EES will replace the current system of manual passport stamping, which is time-consuming, does not provide reliable data on border crossings, and does not allow a systematic detection of overstayers,” stated the European Commission's Department for Migration and Home Affairs, as reported by Euro News on Thursday, August 22.

The European Entry/Exit System (EES)

The EES is an automated IT system designed to register travelers from third countries who are visa-exempt or visiting for short stays. Upon crossing an external EU border, the system will record their name, travel document type, biometric data (fingerprints and facial images), and the date and place of entry and exit. Any denied entries will also be recorded.

The automated, self-service system is expected to enhance security within the EU and expedite traveler screening processes. However, there are concerns among the airline industry and governments that a lack of preparedness could lead to initial challenges during the system's implementation.

The new system was originally scheduled to launch in 2022 but was subsequently delayed. Authorities have now confirmed its launch date for November 10, 2024.

Under the new system, visa-free travelers to the Schengen area will be required to obtain online travel authorization through the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS). The gradual rollout of ETIAS will coincide with the operationalization of the EES.

Prior to the implementation of the EES, all non-EU travelers were required to obtain passport stamps upon entering and exiting the Schengen area. These stamps served as evidence that they had not exceeded the 90-day visa-free limit within a 180-day period.

MILA NOVITA

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