Spain’s state-owned port system, through Puertos del Estado —an agency under the Ministry of Transport and Sustainable Mobility— will invest €65 million in new technology and equipment to enhance border control across the country’s main ports.

Spanish ports to invest €65 million to strengthen border security

The funding will support the rollout of the European Entry/Exit System (EES), a common EU platform designed to electronically register the entry and exit of non-EU travellers crossing Europe’s external borders by air, land, or sea.

A modern and secure border control system

The EES will replace manual passport stamping with a digital registration system that collects biometric data such as fingerprints and facial recognition. This will allow for faster, more accurate, and more secure processing of travellers while improving the detection of individuals who overstay their authorised period.

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The system also aims to boost security across the Schengen Area, contributing to the fight against terrorism and serious crime.

Supported by EU funding

Of the €65 million total investment, the European Union will cover up to €59.8 million through the Financial Instrument for Border Management and Visa Policy (IGFV).

Implementation is set to begin in 2026, under the supervision of a joint monitoring committee led by Puertos del Estado in coordination with the Ministry of the Interior.

This initiative marks a significant step in modernising Spain’s border infrastructure, ensuring more efficient, transparent, and secure maritime entry procedures.