The European Union has announced a major delay in the launch of its European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS). It will now start six months after the Entry/Exit System (EES) begins in 2025.

This delay represents a key change in the EU’s border management plans and raises concerns about readiness and its effect on travelers.

ETIAS takes a backseat

Initially planned to launch alongside the EES, the ETIAS has been delayed. According to the official ETIAS website, it will now begin six months after the EES becomes operational.

This phased rollout aims to reduce potential problems. However, the absence of a firm timeline for either system leaves travelers unsure about when the new rules will apply.

The ETIAS will pre-screen visa-exempt travelers entering the Schengen Area to improve security and ease border crossings. Non-EU travelers will need to apply online, providing passport details, travel plans, and security-related information.

Approved authorizations will be valid for three years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first.

EES could take phased rollout

The EES, which the ETIAS relies on, will replace manual passport stamping with automated biometric checks. Travelers will provide facial images and fingerprints when entering the Schengen Area, and this data will be stored for up to three years.

The system aims to improve accuracy and efficiency in tracking entries and exits across EU borders.

Initially scheduled to launch on November 10th, 2024, the EES was delayed with no confirmed date.

EU Home Affairs Commissioner Ylva Johansson has proposed a gradual rollout for the EES. Instead of launching everywhere at once, the system may start at specific border crossings and expand over time.

This phased approach is designed to ease the transition and reduce disruptions.

Visa-free travelers face new pre-screening requirements

The delay gives travelers more time to prepare for the upcoming changes. Once both systems are active, non-EU travelers without a visa will need to meet new requirements. 

The EES will collect biometric data, while the ETIAS will pre-screen travelers, requiring them to get approval before leaving for the EU. These systems aim to improve security but may initially cause confusion and delays at borders.

Frequent travelers and business professionals should keep track of the timelines for both systems. For now, tourists planning trips to Europe can travel without worrying about extra documentation.

Stricter screening raises questions about immigration

The staggered rollout of the EES and the ETIAS shows the EU’s careful approach to updating border controls. These systems aim to increase scrutiny of all visitors while balancing security needs with smooth travel.

This shift could impact immigration policies, tightening oversight of non-EU travelers and improving data sharing among member states.

Looking ahead

The launch of the ETIAS and the EES is a major step in the EU’s plan to strengthen border security in a connected world. The delays reveal logistical hurdles but also allow time to prepare infrastructure and inform the public.

Travelers and policymakers must adjust to these changes to ensure the systems deliver safer and more efficient borders.

As the EU prepares for these updates, the coming years will show how well it balances security with accessibility. For now, travelers have a short window before the new rules change their trips.