Brussels, 04/09/2008 (Agence Europe) - On Tuesday 2 September, the European Parliament (EP) adopted, in the context of codecision procedure (1st reading), a report aimed at facilitating the use of the Visa Information System (VIS) under the Schengen Borders Code. VIS is a database for the exchange of information between member states on visas granted for short stays, and visa requests form third country nationals wishing to enter the Schengen area. The stakes raised by the creation of VIS are considerable as it is estimated that, by 2010, the system should form the largest biometric database in the world, with some 70 million people encoded. Once it is fully operational, VIS will be connected to all consulates that issue visas in Schengen states and to all crossing points on the external borders of the Schengen Area. The report by Mihael Brejc (EPP-ED, Slovenia), which was adopted by 567 votes to 75 and 49 abstentions, recommends in some cases that VIS only be consulted using the number of the visa vignette or, in a random way, using the number of the visa together with fingerprint checks. The report specifies the cases in which this exemption may apply: - when the queues at the border may be too long due to intense traffic; - when all resources in terms of personnel, installations and organisation have been exhausted; - or when an assessment has been made ensuring that there is no risk in terms of internal security and illegal immigration. “This arrangement will be helpful for EU citizens and third-country nationals requiring a visa to enter the European Union. It will reduce queues at border crossings while also ensuring security at the EU external borders”, Mr Brejc was pleased to note after the vote on the report. Nonetheless, if there is the slightest doubt about the identity of the visa holder and/or about the authenticity of the visa, then VIS must be consulted via the visa number together with checks on fingerprints, the text stipulates. The decision to consult VIS must be taken at least at the level of the border guard responsible for the border crossing point. MEPs, moreover, call for each member state to forward an annual report on application of the derogation. Two years at the latest after entry into force of the regulation, the Commission will forward to the EP and Council an overall assessment of the derogation. On the basis of this assessment, the EP and Council may call on the Commission to suggest amendments to the text. (B.C./transl.jl)