Andorra Secures EU Deal Exempting It from Systematic EES Border Controls

The Andorran government has finalized an agreement with the European Union exempting the country from systematic Entry/Exit System (EES) border controls with France and Spain, preserving random checks and open borders while enhancing Schengen transit rights for nationals and residents.

Under the pact, signed last week after legal reviews, France and Spain will conduct security assessments for third-country nationals seeking residence permits. They have 28 days for the evaluation, extendable by 14 days. Andorra will issue temporary economic activity authorisations during this period, rather than definitive permits. Assessments classify applicants as potential "threats" or "alerts" to Schengen security: threats block residency outright or lead to revocation, while alerts prompt consultation with the issuing state to decide on residency or circulation limits. Favourable outcomes grant full residency with a new Schengen-format card, replacing the current green card. Existing third-country residents have two years post-entry to update documents.

Head of Government Xavier Espot hailed the deal as "a very satisfactory solution" adapted to Andorra's needs, maintaining the "status quo" with border porosity and random checks. Systematic controls on all vehicles would have caused "enormous harm" to mobility, the economy, and tourism, he said at a press conference. The agreement boosts police cooperation, information sharing, and Schengen circulation rights beyond France and Spain for Andorrans and residents, who face no EES registration or electronic travel authorisation for short stays.

Secretary of State for EU Relations Landry Riba outlined the timeline: EES regulation approved in 2017, delayed from 2022, with phased rollout starting October 2025 and full implementation by April 10, 2026. Andorra began talks in 2021, choosing a bespoke deal over full Schengen membership or direct EES application. Tourist stays in Andorra now count as time in Schengen, avoiding EES registration on entry or exit.

Foreign Affairs Minister Imma Tor noted ongoing bilateral and trilateral talks with neighbours, including meetings on February 24 and March 18-24. She warned against improper EES registrations by unaware travel operators, which could create false overstays; affected individuals should seek corrections from competent authorities.

The executive expects the agreement to take effect within months, layered atop existing immigration filters like administrative checks and criminal record verifications. Andorran nationals remain exempt from EES by regulation.