The Schengen region is in the process of developing a new central entry and exit system for visitors from other countries, which will eliminate the need for visa stamping on passports. This initiative aims to enhance scrutiny of individuals traveling from outside the region.
Francois Laruelle, the director of the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) Division at Frontex, the European Border and Coast Guard Agency, explained that the new system will register every entry into the Schengen area. It will involve the collection of biometric and facial scans at the borders to ensure accurate identity verification. Passport stamping will be replaced with automatic registration in the entry and exit system.
Furthermore, border guards will verify that the biometric information stored in the system corresponds to the person in front of them. Airlines will also play a role in checking the passenger’s authorization status to enter Europe, as they will have access to certain data.
Laruelle shared this information during a keynote address at the Global Conference for Shaping Future Policies of Ports in Dubai, attended by senior immigration and visa officials from various countries, including the UAE, Singapore, the US, and Europe.
