SIS for end-users

This online module provides an introduction to the Schengen Information System (SIS) and how its functions support its end-users in performing their daily tasks.

SIS is the most widely used and largest information-sharing system for security and border management in Europe. It was introduced following the removal of internal borders in the Schengen Area and aims to maintain a high level of security and support cooperation between competent authorities in different Schengen countries, including border guards, police and judicial and immigration authorities.

SIS enables competent national authorities to enter and consult alerts on persons or objects. An alert contains both information about a particular person or object and instructions for the authorities on what to do when the person or object has been located. It can also include attachments or ‘extensions’, such as photographs and documents that can help to identify the person or object.

The module has been updated to reflect the changes brought about by three new EU regulations on SIS. These changes include new alert categories such as alerts on return, preventive alerts, alerts on inquiry checks, alerts on unknown wanted persons, as well as new object alert categories. It also covers the use of biometric data in SIS and fingerprint searches in the SIS Automated Fingerprint Information System (AFIS) component.

The objective of this module is to provide a comprehensive overview of SIS to help end-users understand SIS and use it most effectively in the performance of their daily tasks. It is targeted at all law enforcement officers, border guards, judicial officers, migration officials or other end-users who are authorised to access data in SIS.

The module consists of an introductory chapter, 16 topic chapters and a glossary of terms and abbreviations related to SIS. There are also quizzes to test your knowledge and understanding. A certificate and a badge will be provided to those who successfully complete all the quizzes.

For more information, please read the Executive Summary below.