The European Union will introduce a new entry-exit system: details revealed

Starting in the second half of 2024, the European Union will introduce a new entry and exit system (Entry/Exit System, EES).

This system will automatically record every entry and exit from European countries, affecting both those who need a visa and those who travel without one. The main change for foreigners with the introduction of the system is that it will no longer be possible to enter Schengen countries without a biometric passport, which is valid for 10 years, according to the EU's official website.

The EES will display tourists' personal data, along with information about the place and time of entry and exit. When entering the Schengen area for the first time, a traveler will have to undergo a photograph and fingerprinting procedure. All information will be stored in the database for 3 years.

Those who refuse this procedure will not be allowed to enter countries with EES. These countries include 29 Schengen countries, including Bulgaria and Romania, which will partially join the Schengen area on March 31. The innovation will not affect Cyprus and Ireland.

Crossing the border will be a two-stage process. First, an automatic "kiosk", then a conversation with a border guard who makes the final decision on entry.

The EES is likely to start on October 6, 2024, after the Olympic Games in Paris.

As TravelWise reported earlier, the UK has banned Russians from visa-free transit at airports.