EES causes chaos at European airports

A bumpy start for the new entry/exit system

The European Entry/Exit System (EES) , which collects biometric data from all third-country nationals entering the Schengen Area, is already causing significant problems in its current testing phase . Although full and mandatory implementation is still planned, numerous airports are already using the system – with clearly noticeable consequences for travelers.

Chaotic scenes at European airports

Reports from Alicante, Malaga, Gran Canaria, Split, and Vienna paint a consistent picture: long waiting times, faulty scanners, overwhelmed checkpoints, and unclear procedures. Individual EES gates repeatedly fail, fingerprint and facial scans take unusually long, and passengers are sent back to manual checks. In some cases, dangerous situations arose as travelers attempted to push past queues, requiring security personnel to intervene.

In addition to biometric data collection, the EES is also conducting automated questions about return flight tickets , accommodation , and financial resources for the first time . This technical innovation is causing additional uncertainty because it is unclear what the consequences of incorrect or negative answers will be. The European Commission has not yet provided any definitive information on this matter.

Particularly relevant for holders of German residence permits

The changeover doesn't just affect traditional tourists. People with German residence permits, national visas , or temporary residence permits will also have to go through the EES process in the future. Technical errors can lead to delays, unclear queries, or, in the worst-case scenario, misunderstandings regarding residency rights . Cases involving new passports, name changes, or ongoing legal proceedings are particularly at risk.

For anyone regularly traveling to and from the Schengen Area, it is currently advisable to allow significantly more time at the airport. Travel documents should be complete and readily accessible, and those affected should be prepared for the fact that procedures at many airports are still far from being fully operational.

Conclusion: Modernization yes – practical suitability still questionable

The EES is intended to enable more efficient and uniform border control in the long term. However, its current state shows that the system is far from functioning reliably. The technical implementation is immature, staffing is overloaded, and information is unclear. VISAGUARD will continue to monitor developments and provide updates on all relevant impacts on entry and residence rights.