EU Sets 2026 Course for IT Systems Coordination
Feb 3, 2026
Category: Border and Security EES ETIAS EU News
Last week in Brussels, the European Union (EU) held its first 2026 advisory meetings to chart its IT systems coordination.
Officials outlined steps to update the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (EES), the Entry-Exit System (EES) and Schengen visa tech for smoother travel checks.
Improving travel checks
The European Union Agency for the Operational Management of Large-Scale IT Systems in the Area of Freedom, Security and Justice (eu-LISA) reported that improving the interoperability of ETIAS, EES and the Visa Information System (VIS) remains a top priority.
These systems are designed to help detect irregular migration and support border authorities by exchanging data securely across the EU.
Eu-LISA’s Executive Director stated that “coordination among member states is essential to ensure the smooth operation of these IT systems and to maintain high security standards.”
The agency’s meetings reviewed the progress on integrating these tools and addressed technical challenges related to data sharing and system compatibility.
Balancing privacy, efficiency
The meetings also highlighted the need to comply with EU data protection regulations while maintaining efficient processing times at borders.
The gradual rollout of ETIAS aims to pre-screen travellers from visa-exempt countries, reducing risks before arrival. The EES, launched in October 2025, replaced traditional passport stamping with automated digital records to improve border crossing management.
Collaboration drives implementation
Eu-LISA underlined that “the successful implementation of these systems will depend on close collaboration between national authorities, IT providers, and EU bodies.”
The agency noted that some member states are already testing parts of the systems, while others are preparing for full deployment within the next few years.
Preparing for future needs
The agency’s 2026 advisory meetings included discussions on future developments, such as incorporating biometric data and adapting to new digital identity standards.
Coordination efforts will continue to focus on interoperability, system security, and supporting migration management policies.
Eu-LISA reaffirmed its commitment to “providing regular updates on the implementation progress and ensuring technical support to member states.”
The agency aims to have these IT systems fully operational in the near future to enhance border security and travel facilitation across the EU.
Steady steps forward
These large-scale IT systems form part of the EU’s broader strategy to manage migration flows and secure external borders without slowing down legitimate travel.
The coordination work underway will influence how border checks and visa controls operate across member states in the coming years.