From 12 October, Member States will start introducing Europes new digital border system, the Entry/Exit System (EES), across their external borders. As of this date, Member States will start electronically registering the data of non-EU nationals crossing the EUs external borders for short stays (90 days in any 180-day period). They will do so progressively, for a period of six months.
During the progressive roll-out, Member States will be able to decide at which Border Crossing Points they will start deploying the system and when. This allows Member States to start benefitting from the new system, whilst ensuring that border authorities, the transport industry and travellers can adjust to the new procedures.
At the end of this period, the EES will be fully deployed at all border crossing points and passport stamping will be replaced with electronic records in the system. It will provide reliable data on border crossings, systematically detect overstayers as well as cases of document and identity fraud.
With the increased use of automated border checks, travelling will become smoother and safer for all. At those border crossing points where the EES is in place, non-EU nationals will have their passport data, biometric data (facial image and fingerprints) and entry or exit data registered in the EES. This is done at the first entry and at the first exit; for each subsequent entry and exit, only a fast verification will be needed. Some countries may decide to further automate their processes with self-service systems. The new system meets the highest standards of data and privacy protection, ensuring that travellers personal data remain protected and secure. Passport stamping will continue during the six-month transition period.
Travellers can find up-to-date information and guidance on the official EES website: travel-europe.europa.eu/ees.
Next steps
The EES will be rolled out progressively over a period of 6 months, until 9 April 2026. As of 10 April 2026, the EES will be fully operational at all external border crossing points and passport stamping will be replaced with electronic records in the system.
Over the coming months, the European Commission and eu-LISA (European Union Agency for the Operational Management of Large-Scale IT Systems) will continue to support Member States to ensure the smooth deployment of the system.
Information campaigns and awareness-raising activities at airports and other border crossing points and consulates in third countries are ongoing and will continue over the coming months to guide travellers through the new procedures.
Background
The EES is part of the EUs Smart Borders package, which aims to improve the management of the EUs external borders by using state-of-the-art technology and innovative solutions. The package includes the EES, the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), and an extended and more harmonised use of the Automated Border Control (ABC) systems utilised by the Member States. Together these systems will facilitate a more efficient, secure, and convenient travel experience for all travellers to and from the EU. Travellers affected by the new rules can, in advance of entering the Schengen area, obtain information about the new procedures on the Official Travel Europe website.
For More Information
