July the 14th, 2026 – The new border entry system implemented by the EU may face yet another delay as border chaos grips many countries reliant on tourism, including Croatia.
The European Union could postpone the launch of its new European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) yet again. Poslovni reports that this is because of continuing and very serious problems with the rollout of the bloc’s Entry/Exit System (EES), according to reports citing discussions in Brussels. While ETIAS had been expected to begin operating later this year, officials are now considering delaying its introduction until the EES is functioning more smoothly.
chaos at borders sees countries refuse to implement the new system
The EES, which replaced manual passport stamping across the Schengen Area earlier this year, digitally records every entry and exit by non-EU nationals travelling for short stays. During a traveller’s first crossing, border authorities collect biometric data, including a facial photograph and fingerprints, to improve border security, detect overstays and combat identity fraud.
However, the system’s implementation has been plagued by long queues at border crossings and airports during the busy summer travel season. Airlines and airport operators have warned that processing times have increased significantly, prompting concerns that introducing ETIAS on schedule could place even greater pressure on border infrastructure.
In response, the European Commission has confirmed that border authorities may temporarily suspend the collection of biometric data in exceptional circumstances to ease congestion. The measure is intended to speed up passenger flows during periods of heavy traffic, although standard border checks remain in place.
yet another revision for a poorly thought-out plan?
According to reports, the EU Agency for the Operational Management of Large-Scale IT Systems (eu-LISA), which oversees the bloc’s border management technology, has acknowledged that launching ETIAS before the end of the year is becoming increasingly unlikely. Its management board has already discussed revising the timetable, with further talks expected later this year.
Once introduced, ETIAS will require visa-exempt travellers from countries outside the European Union to obtain an online travel authorisation before entering the Schengen Area. The system is designed to strengthen security while streamlining border controls, but EU officials appear determined to ensure that the EES is fully stable before adding another layer to the border management process.
For those who hold the nationality of a non-EU country who have legal residence in an EU country, none of this applies and no ETIAS will be required.
