EES faces more operational constraints at checkpoints

The biometric Entry/Exit System (EES) which is live at several airports across the Schengen zone is said to be facing more operational challenges at border points as queues grow.

Sometimes, authorities are forced to switch off the system when it is overwhelmed by users, which means passengers cannot have face and fingerprint biometrics collected, according to Politico.

The outlet quotes an Air France statement as confirming that they turn off their system especially during some summer months to “ensure smooth transit at our hub in Paris and Amsterdam.”

Other airlines and airport officials are also quoted as confirming that biometric checks are suspended whenever there is congestion. And once the system is switched off, passengers are made to get their passports manually stamped at airport counters.

Authorities say the move is allowed by the EES regulation in “exceptional circumstances” such as when queue wait times at maritime ports, airports, or land borders exceed critical thresholds. The move is also in line with an EU Commission waiver that will be in place till September 6. Some countries including Switzerland are however asking for an extension beyond that date if the congestion persists.

The New York Times reports that the shutdown of the biometric system often lead to longer wait times, with some passengers either facing flight delays or missing them outright. Last month, ACI Europe said travellers sometimes waited up to five hours in airport queues to scan their biometrics.

Notwithstanding the concerns, France has defended the system, with the Ministry of Interior saying last month that it had proven its worth.

In April, the EES regime went into full operations across the EU after its gradual introduction in October 2025. The implementation of the policy, which was formally adopted almost 10 years ago, has seen a back-and-forth experience over the years. Authorities said in May that it had recorded 66 million crossings within six months of operations, despite existing constraints.

The system is meant for non-EU citizens entering the 29-member Schengen zone for short stays. The biometric data collected can be stored for up to three years.

One of the main objectives of the system is to effectively check instances of visa overstays, and improve the security of EU citizens through better screening of all those who enter the region. The manual systems which the EES replaces were prone to human error, document fraud, and systemic inability to accurately identify overstayers.

The EU has also announced plans to roll out the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) next year in order to manage travellers who do not require a visa to enter the zone.

Article Topics

biometrics  |  border security  |  Entry/Exit System (EES)  |  Europe  |  identity verification