The Internal Security System (SSI) admits that the European border control system for non-EU citizens could be suspended during Christmas to avoid queues at airports, a measure that has already been authorized by the European Commission.
In a response sent to Lusa, the SSI indicates that there is the possibility of suspending the Entry/Exit System (EES) during the Christmas season, with a decision that “will be taken according to the information that arrives from Portuguese airports”.
The SSI states that this measure was recently authorized at European level, by the European Commission, due to “the constraints that have occurred at some airports in Europe, given the need for more procedures when registering with the EES, which will further increase waiting times”.
However, the Internal Security System ensures that the decision whether or not to suspend the application of the EES will be taken “punctually and if necessary, by evaluating the situation at each airport and without compromising border security”.
“If there is no need to suspend the EES, it is a sign that there are no excessive waiting times to cross the border”, states that organization.
The new European border control system for non-EU citizens came into operation on October 12th in Portugal and other Schengen countries.
Entries and exits of travelers from third countries then began to be registered electronically, indicating the date, time and border post, replacing the traditional stamps in passports.
The entry into force of this entry and exit system has worsened waiting times, especially at Lisbon airport, with passengers sometimes having to wait for several hours, which recently led the Government to create an emergency ‘task force’ to manage this crisis situation.