Monitoring System for Europe’s Borders
It has become necessary to photograph non-European travelers entering the Schengen Area and take their fingerprints as part of a new automated monitoring system.
This new measure aims to eventually eliminate manual passport stamping and ensure better information exchange between member countries.
This system will enable authorities to track the entry and exit dates of travelers to monitor overstays or prevent entry.
The system, which has been controversial for nearly a decade, has faced opposition from some transport companies and passengers who fear it will exacerbate waiting lines at airports and train stations.
To minimize disruptions, the system will be implemented gradually.
The first phase began on Sunday.
Non-European travelers arriving in various EU countries, except for Cyprus and Ireland, will be required to provide their passport number, take fingerprints, and show their photographs at border points.
This information will also be required upon arrival in Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland.
Initially, major European countries, such as France and Germany, will conduct a limited number of checks to avoid long waiting lines at airports.
Smaller member states will fully implement this system starting Sunday.
All countries will also have a deadline until mid-April to register all travelers arriving at their borders.
