The European Union recently implemented a new digital border control framework known as the Entry/Exit System (EES). Designed to modernize how non-EU citizens enter and leave the Schengen Area, the system replaces manual passport stamping with biometric data collection. Since its full rollout in April, the system has been linked to substantial delays at various border crossings, particularly those involving travelers from the United Kingdom.

Reports indicate that the transition to automated checks has created bottlenecks, as the time required for biometric registration—such as fingerprinting and facial scanning—exceeds the speed of traditional manual processing. While the EU maintains that the system is necessary for enhancing regional security and tracking overstays, the implementation has drawn criticism from transport operators and passenger advocacy groups. These critics argue that the infrastructure at many border points is currently insufficient to handle the increased processing time required by the new technology.

There is currently a disagreement regarding the long-term viability of the system. Proponents within the EU argue that the initial delays are a temporary "teething problem" that will resolve as travelers become accustomed to the process and as digital infrastructure is optimized. Conversely, industry stakeholders suggest that without significant investment in additional staffing and physical space at border terminals, the system will continue to cause chronic congestion, particularly during peak travel seasons.