If you’re planning a trip to Europe in 2025 or beyond, there’s a major change coming to how travelers enter and exit the Schengen Area. The European Union’s new Entry/Exit System (EES) will replace traditional passport stamping with a biometric digital record, designed to streamline border crossings and strengthen security.
Updated October 2025 to include the latest confirmed launch date for the EU Entry/Exit System.
Here’s everything you need to know about the EU Entry/Exit System 2025—when it launches, who it affects, and how to prepare before your next European adventure.
What Is the EU Entry/Exit System (EES)?
The Entry/Exit System (EES) is a new automated border control program developed by the European Union. It will record the time, date, and place of entry and exit for all non-EU and non-Schengen travelers visiting the Schengen Area for short stays (up to 90 days in any 180-day period).
Instead of manual passport stamps, the system will register:
- Your biometric data (a facial photo and fingerprints)
- Travel document details
- Entry and exit timestamps
The goals of the system are to:
- Strengthen border management and security
- Detect overstays and illegal entries more efficiently
- Speed up future crossings for repeat travelers once registered
Over time, this system will completely replace traditional passport stamping at Schengen borders.
When Does the EES Start?
The European Union has confirmed that the Entry/Exit System will begin rollout on 12 October 2025, with full implementation across all participating countries expected by 10 April 2026.
During the transition, some border checkpoints may continue using manual passport stamps alongside the EES. Travelers should allow extra time at airports, land crossings, or seaports during this rollout period.
Who Does the EES Apply To?
EES applies to:
- Non-EU / non-Schengen nationals entering the Schengen Area for short stays (up to 90 days)
- This includes travelers from the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and other visa-exempt countries
EES does not apply to:
- EU, EEA, or Swiss citizens
- Holders of EU or Schengen residence permits
- Long-stay visa holders, in most cases
Children under 12 may be exempt from fingerprinting, though a photo will still be required.
What Data Will Be Collected?
When you first enter a Schengen country under the new system, border authorities will collect and securely store:
- A facial image
- Four fingerprints
- Date and place of entry
- Travel document details
Data will be stored for up to three years, or five years if an overstay or border irregularity occurs.
This information will be used to verify identity, track stay duration, and enhance border integrity across all 29 participating Schengen countries.
Do Travelers Need to Register in Advance or Pay a Fee?
No. Travelers do not need to pre-register for EES or pay any additional fees.
The system automatically records your information at your first point of entry into the Schengen Area.
For many travelers, the process will take only a few extra minutes during the first trip. Future entries will be faster, as biometric data will already be stored.
Will This Change the 90/180-Day Rule?
No. The familiar “90 days in any 180-day period” rule for visa-free travelers remains the same.
The EES simply provides a more accurate, automated way for border officials (and travelers themselves) to track time spent in the Schengen Area.
You’ll still need to ensure you don’t exceed 90 days total within the rolling 180-day window.
How to Prepare for the New EES
Whether you’re traveling for business or leisure, these steps will help ensure a smooth experience:
- Check your passport validity – Make sure it’s a biometric (e-chip) passport and valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates.
- Arrive early – For your first EES trip, allow extra time at border control for biometric capture.
- Stay informed – Some airports and land borders may still use stamps during the transition.
- Track your travel days – The EES automates this, but keeping your own log ensures compliance.
- Brief your group or team – Corporate and frequent travelers should include EES awareness in travel planning.
- Renew your passport if needed – If you recently received a new passport, you may need to re-enroll your biometrics upon first entry.
What Are the Potential Impacts?
While the EES is designed to simplify travel long-term, the early phase may include:
- Slightly longer wait times for first-time entrants
- Variation across borders during rollout (some still using stamps)
- Greater enforcement of overstay rules thanks to digital tracking
Travel managers should monitor which ports are fully EES-enabled and prepare travelers accordingly.
How Does EES Differ from ETIAS?
Although both EES and ETIAS are part of the EU’s smart-border initiative, they serve different purposes:
- EES records entry/exit data at the border
- ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) is a pre-travel authorization that visa-exempt travelers will soon need before arriving
ETIAS is expected to launch shortly after EES, complementing the new system for short-term travel management.
Key Takeaways for Travelers
- EES begins rollout October 12, 2025, and will be fully live by April 10, 2026
- Applies to non-EU travelers entering Schengen for short stays
- Collects biometric and travel data at first entry — no advance registration needed
- No fees, but arrive early for first trip under new system
- The 90/180-day rule still applies