New rules for entry into the Schengen area: what will change in 2024?

New rules for entry into the Schengen area: what will change in 2024?

In November 2024, the European Union is preparing to introduce a revolutionary border control system - the Entry/Exit System (EES). This innovation will affect citizens of non-EU countries, including travelers from Russia, Ukraine and the UK. The new system is designed to modernize the process of crossing the borders of the Schengen area, replacing traditional passport stamps with digital data.

At the first entry into the Schengen area after the introduction of EES, tourists will have to go through the procedure of collecting biometric data, including fingerprinting and photographing. This information will be stored in a centralized database for three years, which will significantly simplify subsequent trips.

For holders of a residence permit in Spain, the new system does not provide additional procedures when traveling within the Schengen area. EES is focused exclusively on those entering from third countries, without affecting the internal movements of EU residents.
The main objectives of the EES implementation include increasing the level of security, optimizing the control of migration flows and preventing cases of illegal stay in the territory of the European Union. The system will allow you to more effectively track the length of stay of tourists and identify violators of the visa regime.

However, it should be borne in mind that the new procedure may increase the time for border control, especially in large transport hubs such as international airports and the Eurotunnel. Travelers are advised to plan their trips in advance, taking into account possible delays.
The introduction of EES marks a new era in the management of EU borders, combining advanced technologies with the requirements of modern security. This change reflects the European Union's desire to create a more integrated and effective entry and exit control system adapted to the challenges of the 21st century.

For example, residents in Spain who have a residence permit can rest easy: the new Entry/Exit System (EES) will not affect their movement within the Schengen area. If you are planning a trip to France or any other member state of the Schengen Agreement, you will not have to undergo additional procedures. EES is aimed exclusively at third-country nationals entering the territory of the European Union for the first time.

The implementation of EES has several key objectives. Firstly, the system is designed to significantly increase the level of security at the external borders of the EU. Secondly, it will provide more effective control of migration flows, allowing you to accurately track the length of stay of foreign citizens. Finally, EES will become a powerful tool in the fight against illegal stay in the European Union, helping to identify persons who have exceeded the permitted period of stay.

However, it should be borne in mind that the new system may affect the time of border control. Travelers should be prepared for a possible increase in queues, especially at major transport hubs. This applies to both international airports and land border crossings, including important facilities such as the Eurotunnel. It is recommended to plan your trips in advance, taking into account potential delays, and arrive at checkpoints with time to spare.