Chronicles

The new Entry/Exit System (EES) has been operational since October 12, 2025. European countries using the EES are gradually implementing the system at their external borders. This means that data collection will be introduced gradually at border crossing points and will be fully operational by April 10, 2026. For more information, see What does the gradual rollout of the EES mean?

What does the gradual rollout of the EES mean?

The Entry/Exit System (EES) will be rolled out gradually at the external borders of the 29 European countries over a period of six months. These European countries will introduce the various elements of the EES in stages, including the collection of biometric data, such as facial images and fingerprints. This means that travelers’ biometric data (facial images and fingerprints) may not be collected immediately at every border crossing point and their personal information may not be recorded in the system. Passports will continue to be stamped as usual.

This gradual implementation will last until April 9, 2026. From April 10, 2026, the EES will be fully operational at all external border crossing points of European countries using the system.

Legal basis: Regulation (EU) 2017/2226 and Regulation (EU) 2025/1534

This electronic registration system will replace the manual stamping of passports of third-country nationals to the European Union, such as Canada.

The EES will apply to people traveling to the Schengen area for a short stay (up to 90 days in any 180-day period), regardless of whether they need a visa.

Travelers’ personal data will be recorded digitally when they cross the border.

Mandatory registration and data collected

When crossing the border for the first time after the system comes into effect, travelers will be required to provide their personal data. Border control officers will take their fingerprints or photograph their face.

This data will include:
• Date and time of entry and exit
• Place of entry and exit
• Full name
• Passport number
• Photograph
• Fingerprints
• Any decision to refuse entry

Travelers using a biometric passport will be able to access automated checkpoints (where available) more quickly. Those returning after a first entry will simply have their data verified, with some exceptions.

Gradual implementation until April 2026

The EES will be gradually rolled out at the external borders of 29 European countries. This transition phase will last until April 9, 2026.

During this period, some data may not be collected at all crossing points, and passports will continue to be stamped.

As of April 10, 2026, the EES will be fully operational at all relevant borders.

System objectives

According to the European Union, the EES aims to:
• Modernize the management of external borders
• Improve the effectiveness of controls
• Combat identity fraud
• Strengthen internal security
• Help identify unauthorized extended stays

The system will also gradually replace passport stamping and reduce queues through automation.

Automated procedures and pre-registration possible

Some countries will offer self-service kiosks or mobile apps to allow travelers to register certain data in advance, which will speed up checks.

Automation will also allow border agents to receive data in advance, verify the traveler’s identity and remaining authorized length of stay, and make a final decision upon arrival.

Documents required for automated kiosks

To use self-service systems, travelers will need to have a biometric passport.

However, non-biometric passports will still be accepted provided they are valid and other entry requirements are met.

Carriers’ obligations

Carriers will be responsible for verifying that non-European travelers subject to visa requirements have a valid visa and that the authorized number of entries has not been exceeded.

As passports will no longer be stamped once the EES is fully operational, these checks will have to be carried out via a dedicated online interface.

Categories exempt from the system

Certain individuals will not be subject to the EES, including:
• Citizens of the EU, Cyprus, and Ireland
• Holders of residence permits or long-stay visas
• Nationals of Monaco, Andorra, San Marino, or the Vatican
• Certain diplomats, military personnel, and travelers with specific privileges
• Participants in educational exchanges, volunteers, or researchers under certain conditions