Preparing for the new border registration system
The European Union intends to introduce a new, more effective border control procedure for those third-country nationals wishing to enter the Schengen area.
The Entry/Exit System (EES) is a unified EU IT system designed and capable of recording and storing the biometric and travel-related data of third-country nationals entitled to short-term stays that cross the external borders of the countries operating the EES.
The new system is scheduled to be operational in all European countries will start to operate the EES System in a phased structure, including Hungary, by 12th of October to enhance the protection of external borders and prevent and manage illegal immigration. The EES will also facilitate the identification of persons who do not respect the rules of residence and will contribute to the prevention, detection and investigation of terrorist offences and other serious crimes.
Who is affected by the EES Regulation?
Third-country nationals who are entitled to enter Hungary for a short stay and who arrive at our country's external borders. According to the EES Regulation, the police will create an individual file on them.
It is estimated that this will affect more than ten million travellers per year, for whom the time to cross the border is expected to increase initially due to the more time-consuming process of creating the individual file when individuals first entry.
What data does the EES system store?
- data listed in the travel document;
- date and place of the border crossing;
- traveller's facial image and fingerprints;
- place and date of refusal of entry.
How long does the EES system store personal data?
Generally, the EES system stores the place and time of border crossing or the refusal of entry for three years.
What national developments and investments have taken place?
In Hungary, preparations for the entry into operation of the system are proceeding according to plans. To minimise the disruption caused by the introduction of the EES at our borders, the Hungarian Police – with the support of EU funds – has started in due time the development of the Hungarian National Border Control and Registration System, as well as the procurement of technical equipment required for its operation.
Further information: https://www.police.hu/hu/hirek-es-informaciok/hatarinfo and https://travel-europe.europa.eu/ees_en
