Europe’s New Entry/Exit System Launches October 12: What Travelers Should Know

Europe is preparing to modernize its borders with a major digital upgrade.

Beginning October 12, 2025, the European Commission will progressively roll out the Entry/Exit System (EES), a new database that replaces the long-standing practice of stamping passports for short-stay, non-EU visitors at Schengen external borders. The change will unfold gradually across 29 European countries over a six-month transition period, with full implementation expected by April 2026.

The Commission has emphasized that this phased introduction is intended to give airports, land crossings, and seaports the flexibility to adjust without triggering unmanageable delays.

“From this date onwards, the EES will be progressively rolled out at the external borders of 29 European countries, over a period of six months,” the European Commission confirmed.

The EES applies to third-country nationals entering the Schengen area for short stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day window, regardless of whether they require a visa. It does not cover individuals holding residence permits in Schengen countries or those traveling on long-stay visas. The most noticeable change for travelers is the elimination of manual passport stamps, as time spent in the Schengen zone will now be tracked automatically.

What to Expect at the Border

During a traveler’s first trip after the launch, border procedures will involve either a kiosk or a staffed desk. Passports will be scanned, a live facial image captured, and—if the traveler is visa-exempt—four fingerprints will be taken. Those who previously submitted fingerprints for a short-stay visa application will primarily be asked for a facial image at the border. On future visits, officials will reference the stored digital record, significantly reducing processing times.

The rollout will not be uniform across all borders. Major airports are expected to implement the system first, while some seaports and land crossings may take longer to transition. Until the system is fully in place, travelers may encounter a mix of kiosks and traditional stamping.

Who Must Enroll and Who Is Exempt

Non-EU visitors on short stays—including citizens of countries like the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, and Australia—must enroll. Children under the age of 12 will have only a facial image collected, while teenagers may be asked for both photographs and fingerprints. Exemptions apply to those living in Schengen countries and travelers holding long-stay visas. Authorities advise carrying residence permits or visas to ensure correct routing at the border.

Privacy and Data Retention

The system will store travelers’ passport information, biometric data, and detailed records of entries and exits. Standard retention is three years, but in cases of overstays or missing exit data, records will be kept for five years. Access is strictly limited to relevant authorities under EU regulations.

Tips for a Smooth First EES Experience

Travelers are advised to allow extra time for their initial crossing after October 12, particularly at congested seaports or land crossings. Following signage to EES kiosks, removing hats and glasses for photographs, and ensuring clean, dry fingers for fingerprint scans will help the process run smoothly. Standard supporting documents—such as proof of accommodation, evidence of sufficient funds, and return or onward tickets—remain essential, as Schengen border checks will continue in parallel with EES. Parents should note that while children under 12 are only photographed, teenagers may face full biometric checks.

Frequent travelers will benefit from the system’s automation, which will track days spent within the Schengen area. This ensures accurate monitoring of the “90 days in 180” rule. For added reassurance, travelers can verify their remaining allowance in advance using the HelloSchengen Calculator.

What to Expect Across Transport Modes

Airports are expanding the number of e-gates and self-service kiosks, with some carriers planning dedicated lanes for first-time enrollees to prevent departure delays. At ferry terminals and Channel crossings, operators will manage separate flows for families and coach groups, directing first-time travelers to manned counters during peak hours. Land borders, especially those handling seasonal flows, will gradually build capacity through the winter months. Drivers should keep documents easily accessible and remain with their vehicles unless instructed otherwise.

How EES Works with ETIAS

The new EES will register travelers’ entries and exits, while the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) will serve as a pre-travel screening tool for visa-exempt nationals. ETIAS will not be required when EES goes live in October 2025. Current plans indicate that ETIAS will follow in the final quarter of 2026. “For additional context on policy aims, see our overview of how ETIAS adds pre-entry control,” EU officials noted.

Looking Ahead

Authorities state that the ultimate goals of EES are to provide clearer day counts for visitors, reduce overstays, and eventually streamline border queues once initial enrollments are complete. In the early weeks, travelers should expect some differences in procedures between countries and border posts. Over time, however, the system is projected to speed up processing and create a more consistent border experience across Europe. 

By fLEXI tEAM