Impact of New EU Border Measures on Travelers from Morocco

In 2025, the European Union will introduce a groundbreaking system of entry and exit, replacing manual passport stamping with a completely automated digital mechanism. The measure is expected to fall on travelers from third countries-Moroccan citizens included-and will alter the way one crosses the border into the Schengen Area.

Overview of the New EU Entry/Exit System

The EES is envisioned as a border management system in which automated systems will capture entries and exits for non-EU nationals, as opposed to doing so manually.

Key Features:

• Elimination of Passport Stamps

1. The traditional method of marking passports with entry and exit stamps will be replaced.
2. Travelers, including Moroccan citizens, will now scan their passports at self-service booths upon entering EU or Schengen countries.

• Data Collection and Storage

1. The system will record:
1. Name and biometric data (facial scans and fingerprints).
2. Date and location of entry and exit.
2. Data will be stored securely for three years, reducing the need for annual registration.

• Wide Adoption Across Europe

1. All EU member states (except Cyprus and Ireland) will adopt the system.
2. Four non-EU Schengen countries—Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland—will also participate.

Objectives of the European Union Entry/Exit System

The objectives of the new entry exit system include:

• Enhancing Security: 

The system is supposed to help avoid illegal overstaying and detect fraud in travel more effectively.

• Efficiency at Borders:

There will be automated kiosks that will expedite border checks and avoid long queues.

• Tracking Authorized Stays: 

EES will calculate the length of the allowed stay, which will ensure compliance with the Schengen visa rules.

Implications of the System for Moroccan Travelers

The introduction of the EES will bring both positive and challenging changes for Moroccan travelers, altering the way they interact with EU borders.

Positive Impacts:

Faster Border Crossings:

Automated systems are expected to reduce delays during passport checks, ensuring smoother entry and exit processes.

Increased Transparency:

The system provides travelers with clear records of their travel history and stay durations, reducing misunderstandings related to visa compliance.

Improved Security:

Enhanced identity verification will protect travelers from risks such as passport theft or forgery.

Challenges to Expect:

• Adjustment Period: The travelers from Morocco might face initial challenges since they are not used to such digital systems.
• Additional Requirements for Documentation: Frequent travelers will have to provide biometric data, which will need updating every three years.
• Delayed Visa Processes: This could further coincide with existing challenges, such as high rejection rates for Schengen visas among Moroccan applicants.

Current Challenges Faced by Moroccan Travelers

Irrespective of the integration of new systems, Moroccan nationals already face several challenges while undertaking journeys to Europe, which include the following:

• High Visa Rejection Rates: The Schengen visa approval rate for Moroccan applicants stood at just 57.5% in 2022.
• Delayed Appointments: In many cases, visa application backlogs contribute to delays in appointment processing.
• Exploitation by Intermediaries: Scammers often offer expedited visa appointments for a great amount of money, further compounding the issue for genuine travelers.

Preparing for the EES: Practical Tips for Moroccan Travelers

Here are some tips for Moroccan travelers to help them

• Understand the New System: Get familiar with using self-service kiosks for collecting biometric data.
• Ensure Compliance with Visa Requirements: Keep up with changes in Schengen visa regulations to avoid denial of entry.
• Plan in Advance: Allow extra time at borders, especially in the early stages of the EES implementation process.
• Have Your Documents Ready: Have updated passports and biometric data to avoid delays at borders.

The Future of Travel to Europe for Moroccans

The EES is a step toward streamlined, secure travel across the Schengen Area. While the system promises efficiency and improved security, Moroccan travelers must adapt to the new requirements and prepare for potential challenges.

The key for Moroccan nationals in these European travels will be to stay informed and proactive as the EU continues to implement such measures.