NEWS: 9 European Countries Seek Extension of Temporary EES Border Measures Amid Ongoing Travel Disruptions

Nine European countries have jointly urged the European Union to extend temporary measures that allow border authorities to ease biometric checks under the Entry/Exit System (EES), citing persistent congestion at border crossings and continued disruption to travelers and the transport sector.

Belgium, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Malta, the Netherlands, Portugal, and Switzerland have requested that the current flexibility mechanism remain in effect beyond its scheduled expiration on September 6, 2026. The temporary measures permit border authorities, in exceptional circumstances, to suspend the collection of travelers' biometric data, including fingerprints and facial images, to reduce waiting times during periods of heavy passenger traffic.

In a joint letter to the European Union, the nine countries expressed concern that ending the mechanism as scheduled could worsen border delays. They emphasized that maintaining the temporary flexibility beyond September is essential to support border operations and minimize disruption for travelers and the transportation industry.

The request comes as airports and airlines continue to report operational challenges following the implementation of the EES. Industry stakeholders have warned that the new border control system has resulted in long queues and increased processing times at several European entry points.

EasyJet Chief Executive Kenton Jarvis described the current situation as "completely unacceptable," calling on border authorities to maximize the use of existing flexibility measures. He also urged policymakers to review the system and extend the temporary arrangements if necessary to prevent further disruption for passengers.

Airport operators have likewise highlighted the impact of prolonged waiting times. According to Alexander Zinell, Chief Executive of Fraport Greece, which manages 14 airports across Greece, some airports have installed temporary shelters to protect passengers waiting in long queues while prioritizing elderly and vulnerable travelers. Zinell noted that while the emergency measures have helped maintain operations, they are only short-term solutions and that the system requires significant improvements, including options for travelers to complete registration before arriving at the airport.

The Entry/Exit System is a digital border management platform introduced to replace traditional passport stamping for travelers entering and leaving the Schengen Area. The system records biometric information, including facial images and fingerprints, along with passport details each time a traveler crosses an external Schengen border. It was introduced to strengthen border security, improve migration management, and streamline entry and exit procedures. However, its rollout has generated operational challenges at several border crossings, prompting renewed calls for system enhancements and greater implementation flexibility.