No More Passport Stamps: How the EU’s New EES Biometric System Affects Your European Tourist Visa

Thinking of going on a trip to Europe?

If you are applying for a Schengen Tourist Visa, you have probably come across the European Union's new Entry/Exit System or EES. This new system will replace manual passport stamps with digital records at the border.

If you are applying for a Schengen Tourist Visa from India, you might be thinking, " Is there any chance of a change in the Schengen visa application?

Not to worry, the visa application part is not likely to change. But the manner of travellers entering and leaving Schengen countries will be affected by the new digital border system.

What Is the EU Entry/Exit System (EES)?

The Entry/Exit System (EES) is a new electronic registration system at the borders of the European Union.

The information is not entered onto passports but will be noted by border officials electronically.

Additionally, the system will gather biometric data, including fingerprint prints and a photo of the face, when needed.

Make border checks quicker, more secure, and have a record of all travels.

The EU Entry/Exit System (EES) is an online border system that electronically registers travellers’ entries and exits. It is designed to replace manual border checks and allow for electronic scans of biometric data in order to identify travellers, plus streamline border security and record-keeping.

Why Is the EU Introducing the EES?

The European Union aims to enhance its border control through the EES.

You can use the new system to modernize border controls.

It has the best tracking.

It is beneficial in making it easier for authorities to control visitors who are on short stays.

Additionally, it diminishes the requirements for the manual stamping of passports.

The system is designed to make border controls more efficient while improving security.

Who Will Be Affected by the New EES?

The new system will impact the experiences of lots of travellers.

It applies to:

• Other than EU travellers.

• For Indian passport holders traveling to Schengen countries.

• Business persons.

• Travelers.

• Individuals traveling to visit family or friends.

The new border process: what you should know before you apply for a Schengen Tourist Visa from India.

What Happens at the Border Under the New System?

The border process will follow a series of straightforward stages.

Passport Verification

Border authorities will examine your travel and passport papers.

Biometric Verification

Blood, Fingerprints, and Facial Image - records of your blood, fingerprints and facial image may be collected, verified or processed.

Digital Entry Recording

The moment you enter the Schengen Area, it will be electronically tracked.

Exit Recording

If you exit the Schengen Area, your departure will be digitally recorded.

Automatic Calculation of Permitted Stay

The system will tell you how many days remain for your journey within your travel plans.

Will the EES Change the Schengen Tourist Visa Application Process?

No. The procedure of applying for a visa remains the same.

The following parts remain the same:

• Visa application form.

• Requirements for approval.

• Funding needs.

• Travel cover.

• Step 1: Visa decision process.
  

The major changes occur after you have received your Schengen Tourist Visa.

The new procedures are when you get to and leave the border.

Will You Still Need Biometrics for a Schengen Visa?

Absolutely.

Note that he has two kinds of biometrics.

Visa Biometrics

These were all submitted as part of your application for the Schengen Tourist Visa.

They process your visa application.

Border Biometrics

This is gathered by the EES when you enter or leave the Schengen Area.

They assist in documenting your movement electronically.

Most travellers tend to think these are identical, but in reality their usages are different.

Benefits of the New EES for Travellers

Advantages of the new system:

• Processing the border faster can be achieved gradually.

• For a more thorough history of travel.

• The hassle of administration.

• Monitor your duration of stay more effectively.

• Enhanced border protection.
  

With the construction period ended, the travellers might enjoy fast border processes when the system is fully operational.

Common Myths About the Entry/Exit System

Tips for Indian Travellers Visiting the Schengen Area

If you are travelling to Schengen from India with a Tourist Visa, these tips may help.

• Ensure you have all documents with you.

• Ensure that your passport remains current.

• Ensure your reservation for the hotel and your return transit are prepared.

• Comply with all of the terms and conditions of your visa.

• Be aware of the period you can stay for.
  

Having preparation on your part can make the journey a little easier.

The Entry/Exit System of the EU is altering the subject of travelers entering and exiting the Schengen Area.

It does not affect who is eligible for a Schengen Tourist Visa.

For 1st time, Schengen Tourist Visa applicants from India, be aware of the new biometric border checks and keep working on your complete Schengen Visa application along with accurate documentation.

Proper planning and appropriate documentation are still the most critical elements of a safe trip.

For all enquiries related to immigration contact Aptech Visa today. 

Need Expert Guidance for Your Schengen TouristVisa?

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q What is the EU Entry/Exit System (EES)?

The EES (Entry/Exit System) is an electronic border control system where the passengers and crew of ships have their entries and exits recorded electronically without the direct processing of their passports.

Q Does EES replace the Schengen Tourist Visa?

No. The EES only changes the border check procedures; it does not replace the Schengen Tourist Visa.

Q Will Indian travellers need to provide biometrics at the border?

Yes. If you are eligible under the EES as a traveller, you may have to present biometrics at the border.

Q Will passport stamps disappear completely?

With the new EES for travellers, manual passport stamps for the majority will be superseded by the digital records.

Q Does the EES affect Schengen Tourist Visa processing?

No. The process of applying for a visa has stayed unchanged. The notable changes have been to border crossing and departure.

Q Is the Schengen Tourist Visa application process changing?

No. The application form, supporting documents, financial requirements, travel insurance and process for making a visa decision are unchanged.

Q Does the EES apply to travellers from India?

Yes. The EES will impact Indian travelers who come to the Schengen area as per the current immigration rules, including applicants applying for a Schengen Tourist Visa from India.

Q Planning to apply for a Schengen Tourist Visa?

Aptech Visa will have prepared a comprehensive application on your behalf, explaining the current required travel information.

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