Starting October 12, 2025, the European Union will begin rolling out the Entry/Exit System (EES) at its external borders. This cutting-edge digital system is designed to streamline and modernize border controls for third-country nationals entering and exiting the Schengen Area. The EES will be fully operational by April 10, 2026, marking a significant shift from traditional manual passport stamping to automated biometric registration.
What is the EU Entry/Exit System (EES)?
The EES replaces manual passport stamps with an automated process that captures travelers’ data digitally. When crossing an external Schengen border, third-country nationals—whether visa-exempt or holding a short-stay visa—will have their personal details, travel documents, and biometric data (fingerprints and facial images) registered electronically. This system applies to travelers staying up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
How Will the EES Affect Travelers?
- Automated Border Processing: Travelers will register their biometric data through automated kiosks or border counters on first entry. This data will speed up subsequent border crossings.
- Biometric Data Collection: For visa holders, only facial images will be collected at the border, as fingerprints are already gathered during visa application. Visa-exempt travelers will provide fingerprints and a facial image upon entry.
- End of Manual Passport Stamps: Instead of ink stamps, entry and exit details will be recorded automatically, allowing for precise monitoring of authorized stays.
- Special Assistance: Group travelers, unaccompanied minors, and those with specific needs will receive tailored support to ensure smooth border passage.
- Enhanced Overstay Detection: The system will generate automatic alerts if travelers exceed their permitted stay.
Children under 12 are exempt from fingerprinting but will still be registered in the system.
Why is the EES Important?
The EES represents a key modernization effort in EU border management. It helps enhance security, improve the accuracy of traveler records, and reduce waiting times at borders. Moreover, it paves the way for the upcoming ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System), expected to launch by the end of 2026. ETIAS will require visa-exempt travelers to obtain travel authorization prior to arrival, similar to the US ESTA system.
Key Takeaways for Business Travelers and Travel Organizers
- Faster and More Efficient Border Crossings: Business travelers can expect quicker processing times on entry and exit, especially for frequent travelers, thanks to biometric pre-registration.
- Prepare for Digital Compliance: Travel organizers should update travel policies to ensure all travelers are aware of biometric data requirements and the automated nature of border controls under the EES.
- Monitor Stay Limits Carefully: With the EES automating overstay detection, travelers and companies must carefully track authorized stay durations to avoid fines or entry bans.