BiH citizens, as well as other countries that are not members of the European Union, from the end of this year expect significant changes in the way the border crossing with EU member states.
These changes bring two key systems that will improve security, reduce bureaucracy and modernize border control procedures.
The first, electronic entry and exit (EES) system, introduces biometric data and scan, which will replace the passport stamping forever. The aim of this system is to automate the registration of entries and EU exits for national citizens outside the Union. This system will enable faster, efficient and safer passenger control, and will also help fight identity theft.
According to the EU Delegation to BiH, the EES system will include all EU member states, including BiH, will enable the registration of entry and exit for passengers to EU to 90 days. With the introduction of this system, the EU will modernize the management of its external borders, improving security and reducing the time required for border checks. The introduction of the EES will not be immediately, but will begin gradually, and full use is expected only 2027. years.
The EES system has already been tested at the border crossings of the Republic of Croatia, which is ready for implementation. Croatia has conducted training for border officials, and the technical harmonization of the system has been verified. However, the final date and manner of application of the EES will be determined by a coordinated decision at the level of the European Union.
Another important system that will be introduced by the end of 2026. is ETIAS (European Information System and Travel Authorization). Ethias will require citizens from EU foreign countries, including BiH, to pay approval for travel, which will be valid for three years before traveling to the EU. This system will not require a visa, but passengers will be able to apply for an online approval and pay a fee of 7 euros. Persons under 18 or older than 70 years will be exempt from payments.
These systems, although they make changes, do not introduce a new visa regime. Travelers from BiH and other countries with a visa-free regime will still be able to travel to the EU without a visa, but will have to obtain approval through EtIAS, writes Noise.
