European External Action Service
European External Action Service
09/12/2025 | News release | Distributed by Public on 09/12/2025 02:34
Entry/Exit System (EES)
On 12 October 2025, the new Entry/Exit System (EES) will be launched at the external borders of 29 European countries. The system will be introduced gradually during a six-month transition period and will be fully operational from 10 April 2026. During this time, passports will continue to be stamped, while the electronic registration system is phased in at border crossing points.
The EES has been designed for non-EU nationals visiting Europe for short stays. Travellers holding a visa, as well as those who are visa-exempt for up to 90 days within a 180-day period, will have their entries and exits registered electronically. In addition, a traveller's biometric photograph and, in some cases, fingerprints will be stored in the system. These data will allow identities to be verified securely, preventing false documents or incorrect matches. As a result, border checks will be carried out more quickly, more accurately, and more safely, while safeguarding travellers' fundamental rights.
Once fully operational, the EES will modernise border management across Europe. It will make it easier to track authorised stays, detect cases of overstay, and identify fraudulent identities. At the same time, it will enhance security and contribute to the fight against organised crime and terrorism. For travellers, this means shorter waiting times, clearer information, and a smoother travel experience.
To further ease border crossings, automation will be introduced. Many countries are planning to install self-service kiosks at their external borders. Travellers with biometric passports will be able to register their data themselves, check whether their details are already stored in the system, and then proceed directly to a border officer for verification. This will reduce time-consuming manual procedures and shorten queues, while security checks will continue to be carried out with the same rigour.
The EES represents an important step forward in European border management: faster, safer, and more transparent. For travellers, it means easier journeys; for Europe, a stronger security system.
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