Enhanced Passenger Processing Rolls Out Nationwide
Table of Contents
- 1. Enhanced Passenger Processing Rolls Out Nationwide
- 2. How EPP Works
- 3. Growing Passenger Numbers Drive Modernization
- 4. Maintaining Passenger Choice and Privacy
- 5. The Future of Border Security
- 6. Frequently Asked Questions About Biometric Border Control
- 7. What are the key biometric data points collected by the EES upon arrival at an EU border?
- 8. EU Customs adn Border Protection Launch Biometric System to Speed Up International Arrivals
- 9. The Entry/Exit System (EES) and its Biometric Components
- 10. What is the Entry/Exit System (EES)?
- 11. Biometric Data Collection: What to Expect
- 12. How the System Works: A Step-by-Step guide
- 13. Benefits of the EES: Security and Efficiency
- 14. Potential Challenges and concerns
- 15. ETIAS: The Complementary Travel Authorization
Washington D.C. – The United States Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is rapidly deploying an upgraded passenger processing system, known as Enhanced Passenger Processing (EPP), to a growing number of major international airports across the nation. The initiative leverages biometric technology – specifically facial comparison – to streamline the arrival process for international travelers, a move officials say is vital to managing increasing passenger volumes and strengthening national security.
Interim Deputy Executive Commissioner Diane J. Sabatino stated that the implementation of EPP is a commitment to both improved national security and a more efficient travel experience. She emphasized that the integration of advanced technologies and mobile applications will transform airport inspections into a more fluid and contactless procedure.
How EPP Works
The EPP system utilizes cameras positioned along arrival lanes to capture a traveler’s photograph. This image is then instantly compared to existing images within CBP databases. This rapid comparison generates an “evaluation package” for Customs and Border Protection Officers, providing identity verification, eligibility status, and any associated alerts before the passenger even reaches the inspection counter.
This pre-screening process is designed to reduce wait times at immigration checkpoints without compromising security standards. The rollout coincides with peak travel seasons and preparations for large-scale international events,including the FIFA World Cup in 2026 and the 2028 Olympic Games,both expected to draw significant numbers of visitors to the United States.
Growing Passenger Numbers Drive Modernization
According to CBP data, the agency processed over 420 million travelers in fiscal year 2024, a 6.6 percent increase compared to the previous year. Officials anticipate even greater increases with the anticipated influx of visitors for major sporting events. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) reports a continued rise in passenger screenings, with peak travel days exceeding pre-pandemic levels. TSA Checkpoint Travel numbers
Currently,EPP has been implemented or confirmed at several key airports including Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW),Chicago O’Hare (ORD),Los Angeles (LAX),Denver (DEN),Charlotte (CLT),Seattle-Tacoma (SEA),Atlanta (ATL),and Orlando (MCO),as well as the Cross Border Xpress (CBX) facility between Tijuana and San Diego.
| Airport Code | Airport Name | EPP Status |
|---|---|---|
| DFW | Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport | Implemented |
| ORD | Chicago O’Hare International Airport | Implemented |
| LAX | Los Angeles International Airport | Implemented |
| DEN | Denver International Airport | Implemented |
| CLT | Charlotte Douglas International Airport | Implemented |
| SEA | Seattle-Tacoma International Airport | Implemented |
| ATL | Hartsfield-Jackson atlanta International Airport | Implemented |
| MCO | Orlando International Airport | Implemented |
Maintaining Passenger Choice and Privacy
CBP stresses that participation in the EPP program is voluntary. Passengers who prefer a traditional inspection process can request to bypass the biometric screening and be processed by a Customs and Border Protection Officer, consistent with the agency’s established policies regarding facial comparison technology.
The agency is also actively developing Seamless Border Entry (SBE),an upgrade to the Global Entry program. SBE aims to combine trusted traveler programs with “in-motion” biometric reading, enabling select passengers to move through inspection points with minimal interaction.
The Future of Border Security
The expansion of biometric technologies like EPP represents a broader trend in international border management. Numerous countries are investing in similar systems to improve security, streamline passenger flow, and enhance the overall travel experience. The effectiveness of these systems will depend on continued advancements in biometric accuracy, data privacy protections, and public acceptance.
Did You Know? Facial recognition technology has seen significant improvements in recent years, with error rates decreasing as algorithms become more sophisticated.
Pro tip: If you are concerned about biometric data collection, familiarize yourself with CBP’s privacy policies and your rights as a traveler.
Frequently Asked Questions About Biometric Border Control
- What is EPP? EPP (Enhanced Passenger Processing) is a biometric system that uses facial comparison to expedite the arrival of international travelers.
- Is EPP mandatory? No, EPP is voluntary. Passengers can opt for a traditional inspection with a CBP officer.
- How does EPP improve security? EPP provides officers with an evaluation package containing identity verification and alert information before the passenger reaches the counter.
- what airports have implemented EPP? As of august 2025,EPP has been implemented at DFW,ORD,LAX,DEN,CLT,SEA,ATL,and MCO.
- What is Seamless Border Entry (SBE)? SBE is an upgrade to Global Entry that utilizes “in-motion” biometric reading for a more streamlined experience.
- What is CBP doing to protect passenger privacy? CBP has established rules for the retention and deletion of images and offers the option of a manual inspection.
- Where can I find more information about CBP’s biometric programs? Visit the CBP website for detailed information on EPP and other initiatives.
What are your thoughts on the use of biometric technology at airports? Do you believe the benefits outweigh the privacy concerns?
Share your opinions in the comments below!
What are the key biometric data points collected by the EES upon arrival at an EU border?
EU Customs adn Border Protection Launch Biometric System to Speed Up International Arrivals
The Entry/Exit System (EES) and its Biometric Components
The European Union is rolling out a significant upgrade to its border management with the launch of the Entry/Exit System (EES) and the associated biometric data collection. This isn’t just a technological shift; it’s a fundamental change in how non-EU citizens will enter and move within the Schengen Area. The system aims to enhance security, streamline border crossings, and ultimately, improve the travel experience – though concerns regarding privacy and implementation remain. this article dives deep into the details of the EES, its biometric elements, and what travelers need to know.
What is the Entry/Exit System (EES)?
The EES is an automated IT system that registers travelers from non-EU countries each time they cross an EU external border. It records details like name, type of travel document, biometrics (fingerprints and facial images), and entry/exit timestamps. This data will be stored centrally, allowing authorities to track overstays and identify individuals posing a security risk. The system applies to travelers requiring a short-stay visa, those who are visa-exempt, and those traveling for tourism, business, or transit.
Key Features:
Automated border control.
Centralized database of traveler details.
Enhanced security through biometric identification.
Reduced border crossing times (the stated goal).
Improved detection of overstays and irregular migration.
Biometric Data Collection: What to Expect
The core of the EES lies in its biometric data collection process. Upon arrival at an EU border, non-EU citizens will be required to provide:
- Fingerprints: All ten fingerprints will be collected. These will be stored for three years, after which they are deleted.
- Facial Image: A live facial image will be captured. This image will also be stored for three years.
- Travel Document Information: details from your passport or visa will be scanned and recorded.
These biometric identifiers are used to verify the traveler’s identity and prevent identity fraud. The system will compare the collected biometrics against the stored data to ensure a match.
How the System Works: A Step-by-Step guide
The process is designed to be automated, but understanding the steps can help travelers prepare:
- Self-Service Kiosks: Most travelers will use self-service kiosks to register their information and provide biometric data.
- Data Verification: The system verifies the entered data against existing databases (like Interpol and Europol).
- Biometric Capture: Fingerprints and facial images are captured at the kiosk.
- Border Guard Review (if needed): In some cases, a border guard may need to review the information or conduct further checks.
- Automated Gate Passage: Once cleared,travelers can proceed through automated gates.
Benefits of the EES: Security and Efficiency
The EU touts several benefits from implementing the EES:
Enhanced Security: Improved identification of criminals and terrorists. The system will flag individuals on watchlists and prevent unauthorized entry.
Reduced Crime: Tracking of overstays can definitely help combat illegal immigration and related criminal activities.
Faster Border Crossings (eventually): Automated processing is intended to reduce queues and speed up border checks, although initial implementation may see delays.
Improved Travel Experience (long-term): Once fully operational, the EES aims to create a more seamless and efficient travel experience for legitimate travelers.
Better Data Analysis: The centralized database provides valuable data for analyzing travel patterns and improving border management strategies.
Potential Challenges and concerns
Despite the potential benefits, the EES has faced criticism and concerns:
Privacy Concerns: The storage of biometric data raises privacy concerns, despite assurances from the EU that data will be securely stored and used only for legitimate purposes.
Implementation Delays: The rollout of the EES has been repeatedly delayed, causing uncertainty for travelers and border authorities. The current launch date is set for mid-2024, but further postponements are possible.
Initial Disruptions: During the initial implementation phase, travelers can expect longer queues and potential delays as border guards and travelers adjust to the new system.
Technical Issues: The complexity of the system raises the risk of technical glitches and malfunctions.
Data Security: Ensuring the security of the centralized database against cyberattacks is a critical challenge.
it’s crucial to distinguish the EES from the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS). While the EES is a border control system, ETIAS is a travel authorization requirement for visa-exempt nationals.
ETIAS: Requires travelers to obtain an electronic travel authorization before traveling to the Schengen Area. This is a separate process from the EES registration at the border.
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