The U.S. government is demanding direct access to European police databases containing biometric data of European citizens. The U.S. is making this access mandatory for countries participating in the Visa Waiver Program. Citizens of these countries can travel to the United States without a visa.
At the beginning of 2022, U.S. authorities sent a letter to almost all member states about this. It demanded access to facial images and fingerprints. Initially, it would concern only suspected or convicted criminals, terrorists and asylum seekers. However, according to journalist Matthias Monroy, it also concerns registration data of residents.
The European Council confirmed receiving a letter from the U.S. in September 2022 to enter into an Enhanced Border Security Partnership (EBSP) by 2027. Under this partnership, more data must be exchanged with the U.S. in order to continue participating in the Visa Waiver Program. The European Council reportedly asked for additional information, especially on the scope of biometric data required.
