EU Entry/Exit System: Delays Persist in Nine Countries Due to Biometric Check Issues

EU Entry/Exit System: Delays Continue in Nine Countries Amidst Biometric Check Challenges

Nine European Union and Schengen Area countries are still experiencing delays in fully implementing biometric border checks. This situation arises after a 150-day emergency flexibility period expired on September 6, 2026. Countries like France, Germany, Italy, and others are continuing to use these flexible measures at airports and border crossings. These delays are happening as the continent grapples with ongoing congestion issues and software problems that emerged during the busy summer travel season.

The Entry/Exit System (EES) is a new digital border management system designed to track non-EU nationals entering the Schengen Area. It aims to replace manual passport stamps with electronic records, requiring fingerprints and facial images upon first entry. The system now covers 29 Schengen countries, including popular destinations for travelers from outside the EU. However, the rollout has not been without its challenges, leading to longer processing times and significant queues at some major travel hubs.

Ongoing Flexibility for Biometric Checks

Following a request made in a letter to Magnus Brunner, the European Commissioner for Home Affairs, on July 7, 2026, several countries were granted continued flexibility. They cited difficulties in processing the new checks smoothly, especially during periods of high demand. Brussels has informally agreed to this continued flexibility to help maintain “border fluidity.” While the official emergency measure ended on September 6, full enforcement has not yet returned to all locations.

This means travelers might encounter different procedures depending on the specific airport or border crossing they use, even within the same country. The countries that have requested this extended flexibility include France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Greece, Malta, Portugal, Italy, and Switzerland. These nations are using the reprieve at selected airports and border points, allowing them to manage the system’s integration more gradually.

Impact on Traveler Experience and Airlines

The delays and longer processing times have created significant challenges for travelers and airlines alike. Airlines, such as Ryanair, have called the system a “shambles” and warned of “queue chaos.” Passengers have reported missing connections in various countries, including Spain, Italy, Greece, and Belgium, due to the extended wait times at border controls. The average passport review time has reportedly increased from 20-25 seconds to around 90 seconds under the new digital process.

An analysis by the Financial Times and Qsensor found that checkpoint waits in Frankfurt reached 120 minutes in July 2026, a notable increase from 60 minutes in July 2025. While only a smaller number of border crossing points are reported to have persistent problems, major airports like Frankfurt and Schiphol have experienced considerable pressure. This uneven readiness means that while some smaller airports might be fully compliant, larger hubs continue to struggle with the system’s demands.

Phased Rollout and System Evolution

The EU adopted the framework for the Entry/Exit System in 2017, with the goal of modernizing border management for short-stay, non-EU travelers. The system began a phased rollout in October 2025, and it officially reached full operational status on April 10, 2026. However, the transition has been marked by technical issues, staffing pressures, and slower processing speeds during peak travel times.

The temporary “safety valve,” which allowed border posts to suspend checks during congestion, lasted for 150 days and expired on September 6, 2026. This removal of the formal basis for suspension has put pressure on countries to fully implement the system. While Brussels initially rejected a bloc-wide summer shutdown, the current arrangement allows individual countries to maintain flexibility at locations where systems are still unstable.

The immediate concern is whether this informal reprieve will lead to a longer official extension. Airlines are pushing for the pause to continue until at least April 2027, while border authorities are working to adapt the necessary technology and staffing. As of September 14, 2026, the strict enforcement of the Entry/Exit System remains softened at selected border points in at least nine countries. This means travelers may continue to experience varying registration requirements and processing times depending on their point of entry.

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