Starting tomorrow, October 12, 2025, Europe’s travel rules are changing significantly with the launch of the EU EES (Entry/Exit System). This new system is designed to modernize border control across the Schengen Area, replacing traditional passport stamps with a digital, biometric-based approach.
For travelers from outside the EU, understanding the EU EES is crucial to avoid delays and ensure a smooth journey.
What is the EU EES?
The EU EES is an automated system that records the entry and exit of non-EU travelers in the Schengen Area. Instead of receiving a passport stamp, travelers will have their biometric data, including facial images and fingerprints, collected at the border.
The system stores this data for three years, which helps border authorities verify travel history and identity. By doing so, the EU EES improves security, prevents overstays, and allows faster processing for returning travelers.
The Entry/Exit System (EES) is a central part of the EU’s broader border security strategy. It works alongside several digital systems to enhance security, manage migration, and prevent fraud. The EES connects with the Schengen Information System (SIS), which tracks missing persons, stolen passports, and criminals, and the Visa Information System (VIS), which stores information on Schengen visa holders and their travel history. The European Asylum Dactyloscopy Database (EURODAC) also plays a role, recording the fingerprints of asylum seekers to support asylum and immigration procedures. In the near future, the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS), similar to the UK ETA, will require visa-exempt travelers to obtain pre-approval before entering the EU, further strengthening border management.
The full rollout of the EU EES is expected by April 10, 2026, but starting tomorrow, a gradual implementation begins at major airports, train stations, and ferry ports.
Who does the EU EES Affect?
The EU EES affects all travelers from outside the EU/EEA/Schengen Area who plan a short stay of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. This includes travelers from countries such as:
The United States
United Kingdom
Australia
Türkiye
Major entry points, including airports like Charles de Gaulle (Paris), Schiphol (Amsterdam), and ferry ports like Dover, are implementing the system first. Train terminals such as the Eurostar in London are also included.
Europe EES exemptions
Certain travelers are exempt from registering in the EU EES, including:
EU citizens, including individuals from Cyprus and Ireland.
Non-EU nationals who hold EU residence permits or residence cards.
Heads of state, diplomats, and officials with special privileges.
Researchers, students, and employees traveling on special work permits.
Crew members of international trains, ships, and freight vehicles.
Holders of long-term visas or special border permits.
These exemptions ensure that people who live, work, or regularly travel within the EU are not affected by the EU EES requirements.
How the EU EES works in 3 steps
Upon arrival in the Schengen Area, travelers will go through biometric gates. The process is simple but thorough:
Passport scan: The border officer or automated gate reads the passport data.
Facial recognition: A digital image of the traveler’s face is taken.
Fingerprint scan: Travelers must provide four fingerprints for identification.
This information is stored electronically and replaces the manual passport stamping system. Returning travelers benefit from a simplified re-entry process, as the system verifies their travel history automatically.
While the EU EES is designed to speed up border control in the long term, travelers should expect longer waiting times initially as both travelers and border staff adjust.
Preparing for the EU EES
To ensure a smooth travel experience under the new system, follow these steps:
Arrive early at the border: Give yourself extra time, especially during the first weeks of the rollout.
Check airport facilities: Some airports have biometric Smart Gates compatible with passports from the UK and other countries.
Bring necessary documents: Although biometric data is now central, travelers may still need hotel reservations, return tickets, travel insurance, and proof of sufficient funds.
Being prepared will help avoid delays and confusion while using the EU EES.
Key takeaways
The EU EES begins its gradual rollout on October 12, 2025.
It applies to all non-EU travelers staying up to 90 days.
Travelers will provide facial images and fingerprints, which replace traditional passport stamps.
Initial implementation may cause longer wait times at borders.
Full rollout is planned by April 2026, and ETIAS will complement the system in the future.
By understanding the EU EES, travelers can prepare in advance, avoid unnecessary delays, and navigate Europe’s borders efficiently.
