With start of operation of new EES border control system the EU will strengthen border security and increase efficiency for travellers 11:45 The Entry/Exit System (EES) will be[...]

On 12 October 2025 the new Entry/Exit digital border management system (EES) will become operational in 29 European countries.

The EES will improve the effectiveness and efficiency of controls at the EU's external borders. The new system will digitally record entries and exits, and data from the passport, fingerprints, and facial images of non-EU nationals travelling for short stays in EU member states.

This new border management system will enhance the security of the Schengen area and contribute to prevent irregular migration. Because it digitally registers information from the passport and biometric data, the EES can offer real-time information on whether people have complied with their authorised period of stay in the Schengen area. The EES will also help to significantly reduce identity fraud.

The EES will be phased in gradually (allowing EU countries start by using the EES at certain border crossings and with fewer functionalities) and become fully operational after six months, as of 10 April 2026.

The system only applies to travellers who are not citizens of an EU country or of Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway or Switzerland.

• IT systems to fight crime and secure EU borders (background information)
• Entry/Exit System (European Commission)
• Border management: Council gives green light to progressive start of Entry/Exit system (press release, 18 July 2025)