In Brief
In detail
The Entry/Exit System (EES) represents a digital revolution in border management for the European Union, designed to simplify and secure crossings at the external borders of the Schengen Area. Launched on October 12, 2025, this system replaces the traditional practice of manually stamping passports with modern electronic records. The EES covers 29 European countries and will record all non-EU citizens arriving for short-term visits, meaning stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This innovation will affect both visa-required and visa-free travelers.
The EES is based on the collection of biometric data and travel information. The system captures facial images of all travelers, as well as fingerprints for visa-free travelers. Biometric data from the passport is also collected, along with the exact dates and places of entry and exit. This data allows the system to automatically calculate the number of days a traveler has spent in the Schengen Area and their remaining stay limit. This information will be stored in the system for three years, and for five years if the authorized stay is exceeded, enhancing control and security.
It is important to note that the EES implementation will be phased, with completion expected by April 10, 2026. During this transition period, it is possible that some border crossings will use the EES system, while others will continue to use passport stamps. Passengers using self-service kiosks at airports will encounter a new digital process at smart borders, requiring careful familiarization with the registration procedure.
The European Entry/Exit System (EES) is a new initiative aimed at modernizing border control in 29 European countries. This list includes all 25 countries that make up the European Union's Schengen Area, as well as Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland. The following countries are therefore participating in the EES: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland. According to the Swiss Migration Service, Switzerland is expected to be one of the first countries ready for the EES implementation, which is planned for 2016.
- The European Entry System (EES), launched on October 12, 2025, is an innovative approach to border management in the European Union that replaces manual passport stamps with electronic records, aiming to simplify and improve security for crossing the external borders of the Schengen Area.
- The European Entry System (EES) will be implemented in 29 European countries and will register all non-EU citizens arriving with short-term visas for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. This innovation will apply to both visa-required and visa-free travelers.
- The European Entry System (EES) collects biometric data, including facial images and fingerprints, to monitor the entry of citizens who do not require a visa.
- The system collects biometric data from passports and information on entry and exit dates and locations, enabling automatic tracking of the number of days spent in the Schengen Area and the remaining stay limit for travelers.
- The information storage system will be in effect for three years, with the possibility of extending it to five years if the stay limit is exceeded, improving control and security. The EES is planned to be implemented in stages, with completion by April 10, 2026.
In detail
The Entry/Exit System (EES) represents a digital revolution in border management for the European Union, designed to simplify and secure crossings at the external borders of the Schengen Area. Launched on October 12, 2025, this system replaces the traditional practice of manually stamping passports with modern electronic records. The EES covers 29 European countries and will record all non-EU citizens arriving for short-term visits, meaning stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This innovation will affect both visa-required and visa-free travelers.
The EES is based on the collection of biometric data and travel information. The system captures facial images of all travelers, as well as fingerprints for visa-free travelers. Biometric data from the passport is also collected, along with the exact dates and places of entry and exit. This data allows the system to automatically calculate the number of days a traveler has spent in the Schengen Area and their remaining stay limit. This information will be stored in the system for three years, and for five years if the authorized stay is exceeded, enhancing control and security.
It is important to note that the EES implementation will be phased, with completion expected by April 10, 2026. During this transition period, it is possible that some border crossings will use the EES system, while others will continue to use passport stamps. Passengers using self-service kiosks at airports will encounter a new digital process at smart borders, requiring careful familiarization with the registration procedure.
The European Entry/Exit System (EES) is a new initiative aimed at modernizing border control in 29 European countries. This list includes all 25 countries that make up the European Union's Schengen Area, as well as Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland. The following countries are therefore participating in the EES: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland. According to the Swiss Migration Service, Switzerland is expected to be one of the first countries ready for the EES implementation, which is planned for 2016.
It's worth noting, however, that Ireland and Cyprus, despite being EU members, have not joined the EES and continue to use the traditional passport stamp system. This means that when crossing the border between Ireland and an EES country, for example, when flying from Dublin to Paris, both your exit from Ireland (with a stamp) and your entry into France will be recorded by the EES system.
The EES system requires all non-EU/Schengen Area citizens arriving for short stays (up to 90 days within a 180-day period) to register. As part of their initial registration, visa-exempt travelers will have their photograph taken and four fingerprints collected. For those who already have a visa, their fingerprints are likely already in the VIS (Visa Information System), and re-collection will not be required for the EES. Children under 12 are exempt from fingerprint collection, but their photograph will be mandatory.
It is important to understand who is exempt from registering in the EES. According to Regulation (EU) 2017/2226, these individuals include:
The EES system requires all non-EU/Schengen Area citizens arriving for short stays (up to 90 days within a 180-day period) to register. As part of their initial registration, visa-exempt travelers will have their photograph taken and four fingerprints collected. For those who already have a visa, their fingerprints are likely already in the VIS (Visa Information System), and re-collection will not be required for the EES. Children under 12 are exempt from fingerprint collection, but their photograph will be mandatory.
It is important to understand who is exempt from registering in the EES. According to Regulation (EU) 2017/2226, these individuals include:
- EU/EEA/Switzerland citizens: All citizens of EU Member States, as well as EEA countries (Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein), and Switzerland.
- Ireland and Cyprus citizens: Although these countries are EU members, they do not apply the EES.
- Residence permit and long-term visa holders: This includes holders of a residence permit from any EES country, as well as holders of a long-term visa (type D).
- Family members of EU citizens: This includes family members of EU citizens holding a residence permit in accordance with Article 10 or Article 20(1) of Directive 2004/38/EC.
Special Nationalities:
Exemption from Border and Transport Control:
Check-in system options:
Initial check-in – comprehensive data collection:
The initial check-in in the EES system for each traveler includes several key steps:
Following visits – expedited process:
After initial registration, the process is significantly simplified for subsequent visits to the Schengen Area within three years. You will only need to present your passport for scanning and undergo facial verification. This will allow your data to be processed significantly faster.
Possible system failures and precautions:
In the event of technical failures in the EES system, alternative measures are provided:
- Citizens of Andorra, Monaco, and San Marino
- Holders of passports issued by the Vatican City State or the Holy See
- Diplomatic and Official Exemptions:
- Heads of State and members of their delegations
- Persons enjoying privileges under the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations
- NATO or Partnership for Peace personnel holding movement orders under the NATO Status of Forces Agreement
Exemption from Border and Transport Control:
- Cross-border workers under bilateral agreements
- Holders of local border traffic permits
- Crew members of ships and aircraft on official duties
- Crew members of passenger and freight trains on international routes
- Persons on board pleasure craft not subject to border control
- Persons on board coastal fishing vessels
- Researchers, students, domestic helpers, and staff transferred internally Companies are exempt from screening only if they have long-term visas or residence permits, and not based on the purpose of their trip.
Check-in system options:
- Traditional booths with biometric equipment: This option involves specialized booths equipped with modern biometric data collection equipment.
- Self-service kiosks with subsequent screening by an airport employee: This approach combines the convenience of self-check-in through interactive kiosks with the mandatory data verification by a border control officer.
- Fully automated kiosks: The most advanced option, where the entire check-in process, including the collection and verification of biometric data, occurs fully automatically at self-service kiosks.
Initial check-in – comprehensive data collection:
The initial check-in in the EES system for each traveler includes several key steps:
- Passport scanning: To confirm identity and extract basic information.
- Photo capture: To create a digital portrait for identification. Fingerprinting (for visa-exempt travelers): This step is especially important for citizens of countries entering the Schengen Area visa-free. The system collects four fingerprints from one hand (index, middle, ring, and little fingers). If the scan is unsuccessful, an attempt will be made on the other hand. It is important to note that thumbprints are not scanned.
- Data verification against the VIS (Visa Information System) and SIS (Schengen Information System) databases: Automatically checks for any restrictions or warnings.
- Creation of your digital record: Creation of a unique digital traveler profile in the EES.
Following visits – expedited process:
After initial registration, the process is significantly simplified for subsequent visits to the Schengen Area within three years. You will only need to present your passport for scanning and undergo facial verification. This will allow your data to be processed significantly faster.
Possible system failures and precautions:
In the event of technical failures in the EES system, alternative measures are provided:
- Temporary return to passport stamping: Until the system is restored, border services may return to the traditional method of stamping passports.
- Local data storage: In the event of temporary problems with online access, data may be saved locally for subsequent download.
- Manual override by staff: Border service staff have the authority to manually adjust or override biometric requirements in exceptional cases.
- Passport stamp priority during the transition period: During the 180-day transition period, if discrepancies arise between passport stamps and digital data, the stamps will take precedence.
Current implementation status:
The EES system was launched on October 12, 2025, and is currently in the gradual rollout phase. EU Member States will gradually implement the system at selected border crossing points by April 10, 2026.
What else do you need to know?
With the launch of three different registration systems and the simultaneous application of visa regulations, ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) and the EES, it's important for travelers to fully understand all the changes. We recommend reviewing the comparative guide to help you understand the requirements applicable to your nationality, the implementation timelines for the systems, and their interaction at the border.
How does the EES collect data?
The EES collects information directly during border crossings. Each time you enter and leave the Schengen Area, your information will be automatically recorded. This includes biometric data (fingerprints and digital photographs) and personal data stored in your passport.
What data does EES collect?
EES collects the following categories of data:
How long does EES retain your personal data?
Data collected by EES is retained for three years from the visa expiration date or from the date of last entry if a visa was not required. However, if you have been flagged as an overstayer (for example, due to overstay), your data may be retained for up to five years.
Who has access to your personal data?
Access to EES data is granted to authorized officials of border guards, visa application centers, and law enforcement agencies of EU Member States, as well as Europol and Eurojust. Access is granted only for the purpose of fulfilling their official duties, such as verifying the legality of stay, combating illegal immigration, and ensuring security.
Consequences of Overstay
The most important thing to understand about the EES is the severe consequences for overstaying.
Exceed 90 days? You are marked as an overstayer. Your data is recorded and made available to all Member States. This means you are automatically included in a database of visa violators.
Consequences vary by country, but generally include:
The EES system was launched on October 12, 2025, and is currently in the gradual rollout phase. EU Member States will gradually implement the system at selected border crossing points by April 10, 2026.
What else do you need to know?
With the launch of three different registration systems and the simultaneous application of visa regulations, ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) and the EES, it's important for travelers to fully understand all the changes. We recommend reviewing the comparative guide to help you understand the requirements applicable to your nationality, the implementation timelines for the systems, and their interaction at the border.
How does the EES collect data?
The EES collects information directly during border crossings. Each time you enter and leave the Schengen Area, your information will be automatically recorded. This includes biometric data (fingerprints and digital photographs) and personal data stored in your passport.
What data does EES collect?
EES collects the following categories of data:
- Passport data: passport number, expiration date, and issuing country.
- Biometric data: digital facial image and fingerprints (for individuals over 12 years of age).
- Date and time of entry/exit from the Schengen Area.
- Border crossing point.
- Visa information, if applicable.
- Information on any refusals of entry or overstays.
How long does EES retain your personal data?
Data collected by EES is retained for three years from the visa expiration date or from the date of last entry if a visa was not required. However, if you have been flagged as an overstayer (for example, due to overstay), your data may be retained for up to five years.
Who has access to your personal data?
Access to EES data is granted to authorized officials of border guards, visa application centers, and law enforcement agencies of EU Member States, as well as Europol and Eurojust. Access is granted only for the purpose of fulfilling their official duties, such as verifying the legality of stay, combating illegal immigration, and ensuring security.
Consequences of Overstay
The most important thing to understand about the EES is the severe consequences for overstaying.
Exceed 90 days? You are marked as an overstayer. Your data is recorded and made available to all Member States. This means you are automatically included in a database of visa violators.
Consequences vary by country, but generally include:
- Removal from the territory: You may be deported from the country.
- Fines or detention: Depending on the legislation of the individual country, you may be fined or detained.
- Re-entry ban to the EU: This is one of the most serious consequences.
- 5 years of stay instead of 3: If you have been flagged as an offender, the retention period for your data increases to five years, which can significantly impact your future travel.
What is an overstay? It's important to understand that this isn't a minor offense like a parking fine. A single day of overstay can result in you being locked into the system for five years, potentially receiving a ban on entry to all 29 Schengen countries, and facing automatic visa denial in the future.
We're not trying to scare you; we're simply providing accurate information. If you want to understand in detail what happens when you overstay in the Schengen Area, which countries apply the strictest measures, and how to avoid accidental overstays, read our complete guide.
How to prepare?
Pre-registration for the EES is not possible per se, but you can take a number of steps to prepare:
Future connections
The EES does not operate in isolation. It interacts with other EU systems, such as the SIS (Schengen Information System) and the VIS (Visa Information System). This allows for a more complete picture of travel patterns and ensures more effective security and border management.
We're not trying to scare you; we're simply providing accurate information. If you want to understand in detail what happens when you overstay in the Schengen Area, which countries apply the strictest measures, and how to avoid accidental overstays, read our complete guide.
How to prepare?
Pre-registration for the EES is not possible per se, but you can take a number of steps to prepare:
- Check your passport: Make sure your passport meets machine-readable requirements (MRZ) and is valid for at least three months beyond your intended date of departure from the Schengen Area.
- Accurately calculate your number of days: Use our Schengen calculator to accurately track the number of days you spend in the Schengen Area. Remember that the 90-day limit is calculated over a 180-day period.
- Allow for additional time at borders: Particularly during peak periods (e.g., October 2025 to April 2026), please allow extra time for border control.
- Keep your medical records: If you have any medical conditions that may affect your biometric data (e.g., temporary finger injuries), please keep the relevant medical certificates.
- Business travelers: Keep invitations, conference registrations, and contracts. This may be required to prove that you are not engaged in illegal employment.
- Dual nationals: Try to use the same passport for entry and exit from the Schengen Area. The system may not correctly link your trips if you use different passports.
- Frequent travelers: Carefully track your travel days. Weekend trips, even short ones, can quickly add up and lead to exceeding your limit.
Future connections
The EES does not operate in isolation. It interacts with other EU systems, such as the SIS (Schengen Information System) and the VIS (Visa Information System). This allows for a more complete picture of travel patterns and ensures more effective security and border management.