France Delays Biometric Border Controls (EES)

By 2026 Newsletter week 15

France has acknowledged technical issues with the rollout of the EU’s Entry/Exit System (EES) and is preparing to delay its implementation. (Source: Le Marin)

  • During meetings on 31 March at the Ministry of the Interior, authorities indicated that the biometric border control system will be postponed to September–October.
  • The system, intended for both ports and airports, is designed to register non-EU travellers entering and leaving the Schengen area.
  • The delay follows recognition of a “bug” in the biometric control process, raising operational concerns.
  • Although not yet officially announced, the postponement was communicated to industry stakeholders in aviation and maritime sectors.

France Warns of Port Disruption Risk from EES Rollout

By 2026 Newsletter week 13
  • French ports and shipowners warn EES system not operational ahead of 10 April launch
  • Risk of congestion, delays, and degraded passenger experience during peak season
  • System seen as poorly adapted to ferry flows, especially passengers travelling with vehicles

Armateurs de France and the Union des Ports de France call for urgent talks with authorities to avoid disruption at port border crossings.

Source: Open letter (in French)