The new European EES system is a European security program and a measure taken within the framework of the Security Union and the facilitation of travel procedures. Key information about foreign citizens will be recorded every time they cross a border within the European Union or the Schengen Area, stopping the need for manual passport stamping.
In this article, you will learn about the details of the new EES system and its implications.
What is the Entry/Exit System (EES)?
The EU Entry/Exit System (EES) is an automated information system designed to register entry and exit data for travelers in the EU. It will replace the manual passport stamping process. It will apply to all travelers from outside the EU, whether they require a visa or not, unlike the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS).
The system aims to simplify border procedures and enhance security across the EU by ensuring accurate and continuous data collection. It will track entries and exits to better manage traveler flows and provide a smoother experience.
It is worth noting that the European Commission first proposed the system on April 6, 2016, following negotiations with the European Parliament. An agreement was reached in July 2017, and the system officially came into force on December 29, 2017.
Since then, the EES has faced several delays due to technical reasons and the need to ensure full readiness among all member states. After intensive review meetings, it was announced that the system will officially begin operations on October 12, 2025.
How the EES System Works in the European Union
The manual passport stamping system is time-consuming, does not provide reliable data on border crossings, and does not detect travelers who have exceeded the maximum permitted length of stay. Therefore, the EES system collects basic traveler data, including:
- Traveler’s name
- Type of travel document
- Biometric data (such as fingerprints and facial images)
- Date and time of entry and exit
The system will also record any refusals of entry, if any, while respecting the basic rights and data protection of all travelers.
This EES system will speed up procedures at border crossings and significantly facilitate entry and exit to and from European countries. This means more flexibility for frequent travelers to the EU, as their passports will not be stamped at every border crossing.
However, additional delays may happen when travelers use the EES system for the first time, as they will be required to provide their fingerprints and have their photo taken. Children under 12 years of age will not be required to provide fingerprints.
Who will the EES apply to?
The new system applies to travelers from outside the EU for short stays, including those from countries that benefit from a 90-day visa waiver.
This means that citizens of Caribbean countries, the UK, the US, Canada, Australia, Japan, and other non-EU countries will be required to register upon arrival.
Which countries will implement the EES system?
The EES system will be implemented in 29 countries, as follows:
- 25 of the 27 EU member states. The system will not be implemented in Ireland and Cyprus, and manual checks will continue in these two countries.
- Four countries in the Schengen Area but not EU members: Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland.
When will the EES system begin?
The new EES system is scheduled to launch on October 12, 2025. However, it will not be implemented at once in all affected countries. Rather, it will be implemented gradually starting in October 2025, with all countries required to join within six months.
During this transitional period, the manual passport stamping system will continue for the next six months, until the system is fully operational at all border crossing points and airports as planned, starting April 10, 2026.
What types of biometric data does the European Entry-Exit System (EES) record?
The European Entry-Exit System records biometric data based on the traveler’s status, as follows:
- If you are a citizen of a country requiring a short-stay visa: Only your facial image is recorded (fingerprints are already recorded with the visa application).
- If you are a citizen of a country that does not require a visa: 4 fingerprints and your facial image are recorded.
- Children under 12 years of age: Their fingerprints are not taken, even if they are included in the system.
Will travelers be refused entry if their passports are not biometric?
No, travelers will not be refused entry for this reason. EU countries implementing the EES system accept both biometric and non-biometric passports as long as they are valid and complete all requirements.
Categories Not Applicable to the EES
The European Entry-Exit System (EES) does not apply to the following categories:
- Citizens of European countries using the system, as well as Cyprus and Ireland.
- Citizens of non-EU countries who hold a residency card and are directly related to an EU citizen.
- Citizens of non-EU countries who hold a residency card or permit and are directly related to a non-EU citizen who has the same right of movement within Europe as EU citizens.
- Citizens of non-EU countries traveling to Europe for: intra-company transfers, scientific research, studies, training, volunteer service, student exchange programs, educational projects, or work as an Au Pair.
- Holders of long-term residency permits and visas.
- Citizens of Andorra, Monaco, and San Marino, and holders of a passport issued by the Vatican City State or the Holy See.
- Persons exempt from border controls or who enjoy special privileges (such as heads of state, cross-border workers, etc.).
- Persons who are not required to cross external borders only through official border crossings and during specified opening times.
- Persons with a valid domestic border crossing permit.
- Members of train crews (for passenger or freight transport) on connecting international journeys.
- Persons with a valid Facilitated Rail Transit Document (FRTD) or Facilitated Rail Transit Document (FTD), provided they travel by train and do not disembark anywhere within the territory of an EU Member State.
