It has been announced by the European Union that plans to introduce its new Entry-Exit System (EES) will be delayed after its initial launch date of May 2023 was deemed “no longer feasible”, citing technical difficulties. The EU has not yet provided a new launch date for the system.

EU-LISA Management Board said, “While a new date has not been planned, the management board agreed that the stakeholders shall continue their preparation accordingly, with the target date by the end of 2023. In particular, border crossing points should be fully equipped for the use of the Entry/Exit System.”

The automated IT system, which would have allowed for the tracking of travellers entering and exiting the EU from third countries (including the UK), is set to apply to both short-stay visa holders and visa-exempt travellers every time the EU’s external border is crossed.

The system aims to register the traveller’s name, travel document, biometric data, and place of entry and exit, including tracking any refusals. The current, less secure, manual system of stamping passports is due to be replaced by the EES system soon.