EU Ministers Usher in New Era of Border Management with Approval of Entry/Exit System’s Progressive Rollout
Brussels, Belgium – July 18, 2025 – Today marks a significant milestone in the European Union’s commitment to enhancing border security and streamlining travel for legitimate visitors. EU Justice and Home Affairs Ministers, meeting in Brussels, have formally given the green light to the progressive start of the much-anticipated Entry/Exit System (EES). This decision paves the way for the phased implementation of a sophisticated new technology designed to register travelers from non-EU countries at the EU’s external borders.
The Council’s endorsement of a progressive rollout strategy signifies a carefully considered approach to introducing this complex system. Rather than an immediate, large-scale launch, the progressive start will allow for a more managed and efficient integration of the EES across all EU Member States and associated Schengen countries. This phased approach is designed to ensure operational readiness, provide ample opportunity for training of border guards, and allow for a smooth transition for travelers.
The Entry/Exit System represents a substantial upgrade to existing border control procedures. It will digitally record the date and place of entry and exit for third-country nationals who are allowed to stay in the Schengen area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. This includes travelers visiting for tourism, business, or family purposes. By centralizing and automating this process, the EES aims to significantly improve the efficiency of border checks, combat identity fraud, and help identify overstayers and individuals who may pose a security risk.
A key benefit anticipated from the EES is the creation of a more harmonized and technologically advanced border management framework across the Schengen area. This will contribute to a more consistent travel experience for legitimate visitors, while simultaneously enhancing the EU’s ability to manage its external borders effectively. The system is expected to reduce waiting times at border crossings and provide valuable data for the analysis of travel flows, ultimately bolstering the security and integrity of the Schengen area.
The decision by the EU ministers underscores the collective dedication of Member States to a shared vision of a secure and open Europe. The progressive start of the Entry/Exit System is the culmination of extensive planning, development, and collaboration between various EU institutions and national authorities. This strategic implementation phase will be crucial in ensuring the system’s robustness and its successful integration into the daily operations of border management. Further details regarding the specific timelines and stages of the progressive rollout are expected to be communicated in due course.
EU ministers give green light to progressive start of Entry/Exit system
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