New Entry/Exit System - EES in Schengen 2025
From October 12, 2025, the European Union is introducing the Entry/Exit System (EES) — a major change in how non-EU visitors enter and leave the Schengen Area. This new digital border system will replace manual passport stamping with automated biometric checks.
Here’s everything you need to know about the EES before your next trip to Europe.
The Entry/Exit System is an advanced electronic system designed to register non-EU nationals traveling to and from the Schengen Area.
It will:
Record the date and place of entry and exit
Collect biometric data — including a facial image and four fingerprints
Replace manual passport stamps with digital records
Automatically calculate the number of days a traveler has stayed in the Schengen zone
In simple terms, it’s a smarter and more secure way to track how long visitors stay in Europe.
The EES applies to:
Non-EU nationals visiting the Schengen Area for short stays (up to 90 days within any 180-day period)
Both visa-exempt travelers (like those from the U.S., U.K., UAE, etc.) and Schengen visa holders
It does not apply to:
EU or Schengen citizens
Non-EU nationals with long-term or permanent residence permits
Official launch date: October 12, 2025
Full implementation: Expected by April 10, 2026 across all Schengen border points
During the transition period, some airports and border crossings will start using EES earlier than others. In some locations, passport stamps may still be used temporarily.
Here’s what will happen once EES is live:
At your first Schengen entry after October 2025, border officers will collect your fingerprints and facial image.
Your entry and exit records will be stored digitally.
No more manual passport stamps!
The system will automatically track your 90-day limit within the Schengen zone.
This means border checks may take slightly longer at first, but future entries will be faster once your biometric data is in the system.
The EU assures travelers that:
All personal and biometric data will be securely stored for a limited period (typically 3 years).
Only authorized border and immigration authorities can access the data.
The system follows strict EU data protection laws (GDPR).
Arrive early at airports or border crossings — especially during the first months of rollout.
Use a biometric passport if you have one for faster processing.
Keep travel documents ready — passport, visa (if required), return tickets, and accommodation details.
Track your travel days within the Schengen zone — the EES will do it automatically, but it’s good to double-check.
Stay updated with border authority announcements for your destination country.
The new Entry/Exit System will:
Improve border security and prevent illegal overstays
Speed up immigration control
Ensure accurate travel records across all Schengen states
Replace outdated manual passport stamping
Ultimately, EES will make Schengen borders smarter, safer, and more efficient for everyone.
Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.
Starting October 2025, travelers entering the Schengen Area will experience biometric border checks instead of passport stamps.
The EES aims to make travel more secure and efficient — but travelers should prepare for slightly longer border waits during its early phase.
If you’re planning a trip to Europe in late 2025 or 2026, keep an eye on official EU announcements and travel updates from your airline or embassy.
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