SIS Notifications Removal
The Schengen Information System II (SIS II) is the most widely used information sharing system for public security purposes in the European Union countries.
You’ll be able to learn about the process of removing alerts from the Schengen Information System (SIS). We’ll also explain in detail what the SIS system is, what categories of individuals can be affected by these alerts, and how to properly contest these notifications. Understanding the process of disputing alerts from the Schengen Information System (SIS) is an important step in restoring rights and ensuring safety.
What is the Schengen Information System?
The Schengen Information System (SIS) is an international database designed to ensure the security of countries within the Schengen Zone. The primary goal of the SIS database is to facilitate the exchange of information about individuals and entities that may pose a security interest to various countries in Europe (EU) and beyond, for border control and law enforcement purposes. This system allows participating countries to quickly access data on individuals suspected of crimes, wanted for various reasons, as well as on missing persons and those who are prohibited from entering the Schengen territory.
How does SIS conduct its work?
The Schengen Information System (SIS) operates under the strict mechanisms of the Schengen Convention or Schengen Agreement, which ensure quick and secure interaction among member countries. Whenever a country adds information about a suspect or a person of interest into the system, that information becomes accessible to other Schengen Zone countries. This is achieved through special information systems that allow law enforcement, border control, and customs agencies to use the data. These authorities have access to the SIS and can request necessary information through the Schengen Information System for making decisions related to security, legislation, and law enforcement.
Who might be affected by SIS notifications?
SIS alerts can pertain to various categories of individuals and entities, with each category having its own unique characteristics. The main types of SIS alerts can be identified as follows:
- Decisions on Return: Notifications regarding third-country nationals subject to return decisions made by Schengen Agreement countries.
- Denial of Entry or Stay: Notifications related to citizens of third countries who are not allowed to enter or stay in the Schengen Area. The Visa Information System can manage the visa policy of any EU country and those that have signed an agreement.
- Individuals wanted for arrest: alerts for people who have had a European arrest warrant or extradition request issued against them.
- Missing Persons: Alerts for locating missing individuals, including children, and placing them under protection.
- Vulnerable individuals whose travel needs to be prevented: alerts to protect vulnerable people (adults or children) from being illegally taken abroad or to prevent their travel without the necessary permissions.
- Individuals sought for assistance in legal proceedings: notifications to determine the residence or permanent address of individuals sought for providing assistance in criminal court procedures.
- Individuals and items for checks: notifications to obtain information about individuals or items associated with them for the purpose of prosecuting criminal offenses and preventing threats to public or national security.
- Unidentified suspects: alerts containing only fingerprints and palm prints belonging to the criminal, found at the scenes of terrorist acts or other serious crimes under investigation.
- Items for seizure or use as evidence in criminal proceedings: notifications about objects (such as vehicles, travel documents, license plates, and industrial equipment) sought for seizure or use as data in criminal litigation.
If you find out that there’s an alert about you in the SIS, you should act immediately and seek legal assistance. Interpol-Stop can help you resolve this issue, as well as protect your rights and personal interests.
Alert categories in SIS
The main types of alerts in SIS include:
- Wanted persons alerts are information about individuals who are being sought after.
- Entry bans refer to information about individuals who are prohibited from entering the Schengen Area countries.
- Information on missing persons refers to details about individuals who have disappeared without a trace.
- Warnings about individuals or entities posing a threat— notifications about persons and objects that are potentially dangerous to society.
It’s important to understand that each of these alerts affects the ability to travel and legally reside in the Schengen Area countries.
How does the process of removing SIS notifications work?
The process of disputing and removing alerts from the SIS can be complex and requires reaching out to the appropriate authorities. First and foremost, it’s necessary to gather documents and evidence that support your position. Then, you should submit a request for information review, which may include:
- Copies of passports and other documents verifying identity.
- Evidence that refutes accusations or suspicions.
- Additional evidence supporting your claim.
Decisions to lift alerts are made by the relevant authorities, and the process can take anywhere from a few months to a year, depending on the specifics of the case.
Need legal help with removing SIS alerts?
If you’ve encountered an SIS alert and are unsure of how to proceed, our attorneys are ready to assist. We have extensive experience with SIS-related cases and know exactly how to prepare your documents to increase the chances of successfully removing the alert. Our team will provide you with expert support throughout the entire process, from consultations to representing your interests in court or with law enforcement agencies. Contact Interpol-Stop – and we’ll start developing a defense strategy for your interests today!
