The European Commission proposed a 'smart border package' that consists of a Registered Traveller Programme (RTP) and an Entry/Exit System (EES) that, according to the EU institution, will simplify life for frequent third country travellers at the Schengen external borders and enhance EU border security.

Cecilia Malmström, EU Commissioner for Home Affairs, presented a 'smart border package' that will speed-up, facilitate and reinforce border check procedures for foreigners travelling to the EU. The package consists of a Registered Traveller Programme (RTP) and an Entry/Exit System (EES) for more modern and efficient border management by using state-of-the-art technology. In October 2011, the Visa Information System (VIS) started to operate.

The Commission highlighted that a Registered Traveller Programme (RTP) will allow frequent travellers from third countries to enter the EU using simplified border checks, subject to pre-screening and vetting. The RTP will make use of automated border control systems (i.e. automated gates) at major border crossing points such as airports that make use of this modern technology.

With regard to the proposed Entry/Exit System (EES), this will record the time and place of entry and exit of third country nationals travelling to the EU. The system will calculate the length of the authorised short stay in an electronic way, replacing the current manual system, and issue an alert to national authorities when there is no exit record by the expiry time. In this way, the system will also be of assistance in addressing the issue of people overstaying their short term visa.