Since October 12, 2025, the European Union has been rolling out the implementation of its new Entry/Exit System (EES). Travelers from non-EU/Schengen countries (also known as “third-country nationals”) will be required to register their passport data, a facial image, and fingerprints when visiting for short stays (up to 90 days in any 180-day period).
⚠️ Key Takeaway: During the EES rollout period, which should last until April 10, 2026, plan for potential delays at border controls. And for your first entry under the new system during or after the rollout period, allow extra time for the one-time registration process.
Key Details about the EES:
What is the Entry/Exit System
- The EES is an automated IT system that electronically registers the entry and exit of third-country nationals, including tourists, business travelers, and those visiting family. A key change is that this system will replace the manual stamping of passports. 🛂🚫
When Does EES Get Implemented at the Borders?
- The system launched on October 12, 2025 with a phased rollout through April 10, 2026 across different border crossings.
What Countries are Implementing EES?
29 member countries of EU and Schengen*:
Does this Apply to Me?
You will need to register in the EES if you are a traveler who is not a citizen of an EU member state or one of the Schengen Area countries listed above.
- This applies to both visa-required and visa-exempt travelers for short stays (90 days in any 180-day period).
Who is Exempt?
Certain categories of travelers will be exempt from the EES, including:
- EU citizens and nationals from countries implementing EES, as well as Ireland and Cyprus.
- Non-EU nationals who hold a residence permit or a long-stay visa for one of the Schengen countries.
- Non-EU nationals who hold a residence card and are immediately related to an EU national
- Non-EU nationals who hold a residence card or a residence permit and are immediately related to a non-EU national who can travel throughout Europe like an EU citizen
- See the list of exemptions here
What to Expect at the Border ✈️ 🚂🚢
- Register at a Kiosk: Upon arrival, you will typically register at a self-service kiosk at the airports (implementation may differ at other border crossings). Staff will be available to assist.
- Provide Biometrics: You will provide your fingerprints and a facial image. This one-time registration replaces passport stamping. (Children < 12 years old will not have fingerprints scanned.)
- Data Storage: Your data is securely stored for three years.
- Faster Future Crossings: On subsequent trips within this three-year period, the border crossing process will be faster, as your data is already registered (you will still need to present your passport).
For more details, see here. Tip: As countries are rolling out EES at their borders, expect some longer lines at immigration in the beginning.
What is EES for?
This automated system is designed to enhance border security and more efficiently track overstays. It should also speed up checks at the border once the system is fully rolled out. More information about EES can be found here.