Modernizing Spain’s border control with Europe’s Entry/Exit System
NTT DATA developed the solution that automates the entry and exit of non-EU passengers through biometric technology and advanced equipment
The Entry/Exit System, or EES, was launched as a strategic initiative by the European Commission to modernize and strengthen control of the Schengen Area’s external borders. Under the EU timetable, implementation has been required from October 2025.
This European system replaces manual processes with a secure, automated model that registers the entry and exit of non-EU citizens in real time. It improves security, streamlines border operations, and strengthens cooperation among Member States.
In Spain, NTT DATA, in collaboration with the Ministry of the Interior, the Police, and other government agencies, implemented this biometric control system, marking a key step forward in the digitalization of border operations.
Improving interoperability and information sharing
The main challenge was to strengthen interoperability and enable fast, secure information sharing across the Schengen Area, while expanding digital capabilities and police intelligence. In addition, Spain needed to replace manual, fragmented systems with a unified digital platform capable of operating in near real time across a diverse network of airports, ports, and land border crossings. All of this had to be achieved while ensuring operational continuity, high levels of cybersecurity, data protection, and strict compliance with the timelines and requirements established by the European Union.
Biometric border control built for secure, EU-wide interoperability
NTT DATA developed and implemented Spain’s EES infrastructure, ensuring interoperability with the European platform operated by eu-LISA, the European Union Agency responsible for large-scale IT systems.
The solution provides the following capabilities:
- Biometric capture of travelers’ fingerprints and facial images
- GDPR-compliant data protection to safeguard individual fundamental rights
- High-availability infrastructure for computing and storage
- Advanced cybersecurity framework
- Full compliance with the EES Regulation and alignment with EU timelines and standards
- Intelligence capabilities that provide information in near real time, help detect suspicious mobility patterns, and support police and judicial investigations beyond national borders
The project covers one of the largest border deployments in the European Union, adapting infrastructure and processes across an extensive and diverse network of control points.
NTT DATA also participated in the border technology certification process, led by the Directorate-General of Police. This has positioned Spain as a European benchmark for technological innovation in border control and enabled the orderly, consistent deployment of the new system across airports, ports, and land border crossings.
Faster border operations and near real-time insight
Through the deployment of the new border control system, Spain’s Ministry of the Interior now has:
- Reliable, near real-time data on the movement of third-country nationals
- Automated stay monitoring and early detection of irregular situations
- More efficient border operations, reducing control times and improving the management of demand peaks
- Stronger police cooperation and enhanced capacity to prevent and investigate cross-border crime
About the Spanish Ministry of the Interior
Spain’s Ministry of the Interior is the body of the General State Administration responsible for public security, the exercise of fundamental rights, and civil protection in Spain. More specifically, the Directorate-General of Police is the authority responsible for border control.
It is leading Spain’s adaptation to the European Entry/Exit System, coordinating its deployment across airports, ports, and land border crossings, and ensuring its integration with national and European infrastructures.
Industry: Public Sector
Headquarters: Spain