EUROPOL informs: "The Entry/Exit System (EES) is the new IT system that digitally records the entry and exit of non-EU nationals travelling to 29 European countries for short stays. The system has already recorded over 300 000 movements, with the number continuing to grow daily. The EES began implementation on 12 Oct 2025 and will be fully operational by 10 Apr 2026. By collecting passport data, along with the dates and places of entry into and exit from European countries, as well as biometric data (facial images and fingerprints) and any refusals of entry, border checks will become faster and more efficient. The collection of biometric data will also improve the accuracy of identity verification as well as identify visa overstayers and prevent identity fraud. Non-EU nationals travelling to the Schengen Area for a short stay will start getting their pictures and fingerprints taken at the external borders of 29 European countries."