Starting October 12, 2025, the European Union has officially launched its new Entry/Exit System (EES) — a digital border control platform that records biometric data and travel details for all non-EU visitors. This marks the beginning of the end for traditional passport stamping at Schengen borders.
The EES rollout will continue in stages until April 10, 2026, when all 29 Schengen countries are expected to have the system fully operational.
What Is the Entry/Exit System (EES)?
The EES is an automated border management system that replaces manual passport stamps with digital records. It automatically logs when and where a traveller enters or exits the Schengen Area. The data collected includes:
- Passport details (name, nationality, date of birth)
- Date and place of entry and exit
- Biometric information such as fingerprints and a facial image
- Records of any refused entry, when applicable
This system applies to all non-EU and non-EFTA nationals entering the Schengen Area for short stays (up to 90 days in any 180-day period) — whether they need a visa or not.
Note: The EES does not apply to travellers holding long-stay visas, residence permits, or family residence cards issued to EU/EFTA citizens.
Also, Cyprus and Ireland are not part of the Schengen Zone and will not be using the EES.
How the EES Rollout Will Work
The implementation is happening step by step:
- From October 12, 2025, each Schengen country must activate EES at least one border checkpoint.
- Within 30 days, at least 10% of border crossings will be processed through the new system.
- By April 10, 2026, all Schengen borders will be connected and fully operational.
To make this possible, member states are upgrading border infrastructure and installing systems capable of biometric collection and real-time data sharing.
Who Will Benefit — and How
The EES aims to speed up entry and exit procedures while improving border security. Some countries may also introduce “Frequent Traveller Programs” to allow faster processing for those with consistent travel records.
Link Between EES and ETIAS
The EES is part of the EU’s larger digital border management project. Once EES is running smoothly, it will work alongside the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), expected to begin in late 2026.
ETIAS will require visa-exempt travellers — from countries like the UK, US, Canada, Australia, and Japan — to obtain online pre-travel authorization, similar to the US ESTA.
Together, EES and ETIAS will allow European authorities to track entries, exits, and overstays more accurately.
Europe’s Move Toward Digital Travel
By 2028, the EU plans to make the Schengen visa application process fully digital, allowing travellers to apply and submit documents online — eliminating the need for most paper forms or in-person submissions.
What Travellers Should Do Now
To prepare for the transition:
- Ensure your passport is valid and includes biometric data.
- Allow extra time at border controls during the first few months after launch.
- Follow updates from your airline or check the official EU EES website for the latest rollout news.
Final Thoughts
The Entry/Exit System represents one of the most significant transformations in Europe’s border management in decades. While travellers may face minor delays at first, the system promises a smoother, faster, and more secure experience in the long run — ushering the Schengen travel area into the digital age.
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