EU delays new online system for entry into Europe after problems with electronic border checks

The launch of the European Union’s new system for the online pre-authorisation of travellers from non-EU countries is expected to be postponed until next year, after difficulties were encountered in implementing another electronic border control mechanism.

Etias, or the European Travel Information and Authorisation System, operates in a similar way to the US ESTA model and will cover around 1.4 billion travellers who currently enter the Schengen area visa-free, including citizens of the United Kingdom and the United States.

Under the new rules, travellers will be required to apply online before departure, pay 20 euros and undergo security checks before receiving permission to enter.

The delay to Etias is linked to the setbacks and technical problems that have accompanied the rollout of EES, the EU’s Entry/Exit System, which предусматривает the registration of fingerprints and facial images for citizens who are not part of the European Union.

Difficulties with EES have led to long queues at some airports and border crossings, while the aviation industry has expressed concern about possible disruption during the summer travel season.

EU-Lisa, the European agency responsible for implementing Etias, has acknowledged that activating the system by the end of this year, in line with the original plan, no longer appears achievable.

In June, the EU-Lisa management board reviewed the possibility of postponing the deadline and is expected to return to the issue in the coming months to determine a new timetable.

An official familiar with the process said technical problems continue to persist and that priority should be given to stabilising EES before introducing another procedure that could further increase delays at the border.

The European Commission said work to prepare the launch of Etias is continuing, but stressed that for major technological systems, many factors must be taken into account before they are activated.

EES was originally due to come into force in 2022, but has been postponed several times because of procurement problems, technical issues and varying levels of preparedness among member states.

There are differing assessments among EU officials: some believe the Etias delay may be limited, while others see its launch within this year as impossible.