Entry/Exit System is delivering for Europe's security - Member States must now deliver on implementation

Queues at airports must not become an excuse to delay Europe’s new border control system, the EPP Group stresses after recent media reports on the new Entry/Exit System (EES). While welcoming the European Commission’s support for Member States, the Group calls on national authorities to resolve implementation problems without weakening the system.

"Europe needs control over who enters and leaves. The Entry/Exit System is already proving its value. It is an essential security tool that strengthens the EU’s external borders, safeguards the Schengen area and keeps Europeans safe. We fully support the European Commission in ensuring its successful implementation," said Lena Düpont MEP, EPP Group spokeswoman on home affairs.

Since its rollout began in October 2025, the EES has registered more than 110 million border crossings involving 52 million travellers, refused entry to more than 44,000 third-country nationals and identified around 1,000 potential security risks.

"The legislation already provides the flexibility needed to deal with temporary operational challenges. Member States must now make full use of these provisions and address implementation problems without delaying a system that is already delivering tangible security benefits," Düpont said.