“BLACKLIST” or the SCHENGEN INFORMATION SYSTEM (SIS)

The Schengen Information System (SIS) is a pan-European information exchange system aimed at enhancing the internal security of the Schengen Area countries by strengthening control over their external borders. It is the largest database in Europe. The system records individuals who have violated the laws of these countries or breached their visa regulations, as well as items that have been stolen, lost, or unlawfully appropriated.

Access to the Schengen Information System (SIS) is granted to the police and customs authorities of the participating countries. In addition to them, SIS data is also used by visa-issuing bodies, including embassies and consulates.

The Schengen Information System contains information on individuals who:

• are wanted by law enforcement authorities;

• have been reported missing;

• are offenders subject to arrest;

• require discreet surveillance;

• are prohibited from entering or residing in the Schengen Area.

The majority of individuals whose data is entered into the SIS have been listed due to violations of the visa-free regime or overstaying the permitted duration of stay under a visa.

The Schengen Information System includes the following data on individuals in violation:

• surname and first name (an alias may also be recorded, if applicable);

• patronymic (if applicable);

• date and place of birth, nationality, and gender;

• the reason for inclusion in the system;

• permanent physical characteristics;

• information regarding possession of weapons;

• indication of the individual’s propensity for violence;

• actions to be taken in relation to the individual.

Data in the Schengen Information System (SIS) is retained for a period of 10 years. Consequently, even after the expiration of any imposed restrictions, the recorded information may still hinder a foreign national from obtaining authorization to cross the border. A record in the system may be annulled; however, only the authority that originally entered the data—or a higher competent body—has the legal right to remove it.

Our Services:

• Submission of requests to obtain information regarding the presence of data in the Schengen Information System (SIS);

• Assistance in submitting requests for the annulment or correction of SIS records;

• Legal consultation on rights and available courses of action in the event of data being registered in SIS;

• Representation of the client’s interests before law enforcement agencies or other governmental authorities.