The EU’s new digital registration system has replaced passport stamps to make travel in Europe safer and more efficient, according to the European Commission.
But since the Entry/Exit System (EES) fully launched on April 10, transport providers and passengers have raised concerns about longer lines at airports and train stations, AFP reported.
So far, the automated system refused entry to travellers more than 27,000 times, the European Commission said. This includes almost 700 people who posed “a security threat,” the EU’s main executive body added.
The system applies to the EU’s 27 countries, except Ireland and Cyprus. It is also used in Norway, Iceland, Switzerland and Liechtenstein, non-EU members that are part of the Schengen area. The Schengen area allows free movement in Europe to more than 450 million EU citizens and non-EU nationals.
Have you been affected by the new EU border check system? What was your travel to Europe like since the system kicked in? Do you think the system is better than passport stamps? Did you encounter any problems, or was travelling to Europe more efficient?
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With files from AFP
