A new digital border system for travellers from outside the European Union will launch in October, almost a year later than planned. It will replace the need for passport stamps.

The so-called Entry/Exit System (EES) was due to start last November, but was pushed back at the last minute after several countries said they were not ready.

The EES will record a traveller's date of entry and exit and keep track of people staying in a country longer than agreed. it was also flag up those who have been refused entry.

Travellers will have details and biometric data such as facial images and fingerprints collected.

The system's introduction has raised fears of queues and longer waiting times for people voyaging to Europe on trains, ferries and planes.

In March, EU member states gave the green light to aphased rollout.

'Crackdown on identity fraud'

"This will strengthen security by helping us identify overstayers, prevent irregular movements, and reduce document and identity fraud," said Magnus Brunner, the commissioner for migration.

First agreed on in 2017, the automated system will be used in the EU's 27 countries from 12 October with the exception of Ireland and Cyprus.

Norway, Iceland, Switzerland and Liechtenstein, which are notEU membersbut are part of the Schengen free movement area, will also apply it.

Just before the system is introduced, Brunner said posters would be displaed at airports and train stations to highlight the changes.

"With a six-month rollout, member states, travellers, and businesses will have the time to adjust to the new system," Brunner added.

Border chiefssay they want EES machines operating at half of crossing points after three months. A full deployment is expected after six months.

"EES may take each passenger a few extra minutes to complete so be prepared to wait longer than usual at the border once the system starts," Britain's Foreign Office said in a travel update.

(with newswires)

Originally published on RFI