As the European Union modernizes its border security, travelers to and from the EU will encounter the Europe Entry/Exit System (EES). This is a new automated mechanism for tracking non-EU visitors. The EES is designed to enhance security and streamline processes. It replaces traditional passport stamps with biometric verification and digital records.
In this blog, we’re going to break down how the system works, what it means for travelers, and how you can prepare for this shift in border management. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
What is the EES?
The Europe Entry/Exit System (EES) is an advanced automated IT system that was introduced by the European Union to strengthen border control and streamline the movement of travelers entering or exiting EU and Schengen Area countries. Designed to replace manual passport stamping, the EES digitally records biometric data, such as fingerprints and facial scans, alongside travel details like entry and exit dates.
This technology aims to enhance security, combat illegal migration, and expedite border procedures for non-EU citizens traveling to and from the region.
How the EES Affects Travelers
The Europe Entry/Exit System (EES) introduces new requirements for non-EU travelers entering the Schengen Area. Travelers must now provide biometric data, including facial scans and fingerprints, during their first entry at a border checkpoint. This data is digitally linked to their travel documents and stored in a secure system.
The EES will track entry and exit dates automatically, replacing manual passport stamps. This ensures compliance with visa rules and helps authorities monitor overstays, adding efficiency and accountability to border management.
The following countries are using or will soon be using the Europe Entry/Exit System system.
| Austria | Estonia | Iceland | Malta | Slovakia |
| Belgium | Finland | Italy | Netherlands | Slovenia |
| Bulgaria | France | Latvia | Norway | Spain |
| Croatia | Germany | Lithuania | Poland | Sweden |
| Czech Republic | Greece | Luxembourg | Portugal | Switzerland |
| Denmark | Hungary | Liechtenstein | Romania |
Europe Entry/Exit System Start Date
The Europe Entry/Exit System (EES) for the Schengen Area is now anticipated to go live in May 2025, following a series of delays. Initially planned for 2022, the implementation timeline was pushed back multiple times to address logistical challenges and ensure the readiness of infrastructure across participating countries.
The rollout of the EES will occur simultaneously across all Schengen nations, known as a “big bang” approach, rather than a gradual introduction. Larger and more equipped airports are expected to adapt to the system more smoothly, while smaller border crossings and airports might face transitional challenges.
Once operational, the Europe Entry/Exit System will replace traditional passport stamping with a fully automated process. It will collect biometric data such as fingerprints and facial scans to monitor non-EU travelers’ entry, exit, and permitted duration of stay in the Schengen Zone. This initiative aims to bolster security, enhance border efficiency, and provide better oversight of visitor movements
How to Apply for EES
To prepare for a smooth entry under the Europe Entry/Exit System (EES), travelers can follow these steps:
- Check Your Eligibility and Travel Documents
Ensure you hold a valid passport with a biometric chip. Non-EU citizens entering the Schengen area for short stays will need to register with EES.
- Understand Registration Requirements
At your point of entry, your facial image and fingerprints will be captured, and your passport will be scanned. This data will be stored in the EES database to track entry and exit from the Schengen zone.
- Utilize Pre-Registration Options (if available)
The EU is developing an online pre-registration system to streamline the process, but it may not yet be operational. Monitor updates from your travel provider or the EU Commission to determine if pre-registration is available for your trip.
- Plan for Border Crossing Specifics
If traveling by car, know that at certain locations, such as the Eurotunnel terminal, travelers may need to exit their vehicles to complete registration. In other locations including some ports, tablets may be used to facilitate in-car registration. Coach passengers will typically need to disembark to register at kiosks.
- Factor in Additional Time
As EES is a new system, border crossings may experience delays. Arrive early to account for potential wait times during the registration process.
- Stay Informed
Check with your airline, train, or ferry operator for guidance on EES procedures at your chosen border crossing. For many travelers, including UK citizens looking to enter the EU, communication initiatives are being developed to ensure awareness of EES requirements.
- Prepare for ETIAS Authorization (if applicable)
If traveling in mid-2025 or later, you may also need to apply for an ETIAS travel authorization, which will require a separate online application prior to departure.
EU Entry/Exit System vs Other Systems
The Europe Entry/Exit System (EES) shares similarities with other international travel systems like the U.S. ESTA as well as the upcoming ETIAS. However, there are distinct differences in their functionality and how they impact travelers.
1. Purpose and Functionality
- EU Entry/Exit System
The EES is a biometric-based system designed to digitally track non-EU nationals entering and exiting the Schengen Zone. It will replace manual passport stamping, enabling more efficient border management and enhanced security across Schengen countries.
- European Travel Information and Authorization System
The ETIAS is a pre-travel authorization system that is expected to launch in 2025. Similar to the U.S. ESTA, ETIAS ensures visa-free travelers are pre-screened for security risks before entering Europe for short stays (up to 90 days within a 180-day period).
- US Electronic System for Travel Authorization
The ESTA checks travelers from visa-exempt countries before they board flights or vessels bound for the U.S., primarily focusing on enhancing homeland security.
2. Biometric and Security Features
- The EES collects biometric data (facial images and fingerprints) at the time of entry and exit, storing this data to prevent overstays and unauthorized re-entry.
- ETIAS and ESTA rely on applicants submitting detailed information online, including travel history and criminal records, but they do not collect biometrics during the application process. However, ESTA applicants may provide biometrics upon arrival.
3. Cost and Validity
- EES is a free system, as it applies directly at border crossings.
- ETIAS Costs €7 and is valid for three years or until the linked passport expires.
- ESTA Costs $21 and is valid for two years.
4. Traveler Impact
- EES will primarily impact non-EU nationals, requiring them to undergo biometric registration, which could result in longer wait times initially as the system is implemented.
- ETIAS and ESTA require pre-registration before traveling. This additional administrative step ensures smoother entry processes but might create confusion for first-time users.
While the EES focuses on tracking real-time border movements, ETIAS and ESTA aim to screen travelers before they arrive. Together, these systems reflect global trends toward digitized, secure, and streamlined border management.
If you want to find out more about EES, how it could impact you and how to be best prepared for its launch, feel free to book a free consultation with Lexidy’s expert legal team today!
Frequently Asked Questions About the Europe Entry/Exit System
What specific biometric data does the Europe Entry/Exit System collect from travelers?
The EES collects facial images and fingerprints from non-EU travelers entering the Schengen Area. This biometric data is stored securely to enhance identity verification and border control processes.
Is the Europe Entry/Exit System applicable to all types of visas and entries into the Schengen Area?
No, the EES primarily applies to short-stay visa holders and visa-exempt travelers. It does not impact those with long-term visas, residency permits, or EU citizens.
Will the Europe Entry/Exit System affect how long I can stay in the Schengen Area?
Yes, the EES tracks the number of days a traveler spends in the Schengen Area to ensure compliance with the 90-day rule within a 180-day period for short stays.
Will the Europe Entry/Exit System apply at all Schengen Area entry points, including small airports and seaports?
Yes, the EES is being implemented at all air, land, and sea border points within Schengen Area countries, regardless of the size of the facility.
How will the Europe Entry/Exit System affect the time it takes to pass through border control?
While initial biometric registration may take a bit longer, subsequent crossings should be faster as the system automates checks and eliminates manual stamping of passports.
Need Help Navigating the Europe Entry/Exit System?
The Europe Entry/Exit System (EES) represents a significant shift in how travelers access and move within the Schengen Area. By streamlining border control through biometric data and automated processes, the EES aims to enhance security and compliance while ensuring efficiency for frequent travelers. As implementation continues across all Schengen member countries, understanding how the system works, its requirements and its impact on your travel plans is crucial.
Navigating new systems like the Europe Entry/Exit System can be challenging, but Lexidy’s team of immigration and travel experts is here to help. Whether you have questions about compliance, visas, or preparing for your next journey, we make complex processes simple.
Fill out the form below to get started, and let us guide you through the evolving landscape of European travel with ease.
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