EU allows nine countries to pause EES biometric border checks

Nine countries within the Schengen Area, including France, Germany, Italy, and Switzerland, have been permitted to pause the full implementation of the EU’s Entry and Exit System (EES) through the end of 2026. This decision follows significant operational challenges with the biometric system, which requires non-EU citizens to provide fingerprints and facial scans upon entry.

The EES, introduced in October 2025 to replace manual passport stamping, has caused substantial disruptions at European airports, with passengers reporting multi-hour queues and missed flights. While a grace period for flexible enforcement expired on September 6, the European Commission is maintaining contact with member states to address technical and operational hurdles.

Aviation industry leaders, including Ryanair, have criticized the rollout, describing it as a ‘shambles’ and calling for extensions to prevent further chaos. Trade groups such as Iata and Abta have also advocated for suspension authority, citing the potential for reputational damage to European travel. Despite the expiration of official flexibility measures, reports suggest some border officials may continue to informally exempt certain travelers to manage congestion.