The European Commission has announced the proposal for a new digital travel application, called EU Digital Travel, to simplify travel to and from the Schengen area. The initiative aims to reduce wait times at border crossings, improve security and facilitate document management using digital credentials.
A step towards the digitalization of border control
In 2023, almost 600 million border crossings in the EU, which shows the need for a more efficient and secure system. Currently, EU citizens and third-country nationals must undergo physical checks when crossing external borders, a process which the European Commission says could be improved through the use of digital tools . The new proposal includes a common framework for the use of digital travel credentials that will allow travelers to manage and store digital versions of their documents, such as passports and ID cards, making verification easier and optimization of pre-trip checks.
Digital travel identifiers
Digital travel credentials are not only a digital version of the information contained in physical passports, but also allow travelers to present their documents in advance, speeding up checks at border crossings. This digital version will include biometric information about the owner, although it will not contain fingerprints and will be voluntary and free to use for those who wish to use it.
Facilitating border crossings is one of the main objectives of digital documents. With them, travelers You can submit your documentation in advance, streamline the process at checkpoints. This optimizes border flows and allows everyone to have a smoother travel experience.
Freedom of movement will also be optimized, particularly for citizens of the European Union. Digital documents will allow them to register more quickly in other Member States and secure, in addition to easy access to electronic identification systems.
In terms of border security resources, digitalization offers a considerable advantage. By having more effective tools, the authorities They will be able to focus on identifying and managing higher severity threats.leaving the simpler processes in charge of the technology.
Finally, a strengthening of the security of the Schengen area is expected. Digital documents minimize the risks of fraud and counterfeiting thanks to digital travel identifiers, which make it possible to verify the authenticity of documents in a much more secure and reliable way.
Features of the EU Digital Travel app
The EU Digital Travel application, which the Commission will develop in collaboration with the European agency eu-LISA, will be accessible to all EU citizens and third-country nationals with EU biometric documents. Thanks to it, travelers will be able to:
– Triggering digital credentials on the basis of their passport or identity documents.
– Send documents and travel plans in advance, reduce waiting times at borders.
– Control your privacy, from data processing will require user consentand authorities who access this data will receive data protection training.
The request will be ready in 2030 and will allow digital travel information to be stored in the European digital identity wallet, which should be integrated with other documents, such as driving licenses or medical prescriptions.
The proposal will be subject to examination and approval by the European Parliament and the Council, who will have to agree on the technical and operational details before its implementation. This initiative is part of the Schengen Strategy 2021 and supports the objectives of the EU Digital Compass, aiming to digitize public services and facilitate digital identification across Europe by 2030.
With this proposal, the EU hopes to improve the efficiency and security of border crossings, ensuring safe and easy access to the Schengen area, while protecting the privacy and digital rights of travelers.
