Brussels, Belgium— The European Union has officially launched its long-awaited Entry/Exit System (EES), a biometric border control framework designed to modernize how non-EU travelers are monitored across the Schengen area. The system went live today, marking a significant shift in how the bloc manages short-term visits and cross-border movement.
The EES will digitally record the entry and exit of third-country nationals—non-EU citizens—traveling to 29 European countries, including Schengen-associated states such as Switzerland, Iceland, and Norway. Ireland and Cyprus are not part of the system. The initiative aims to enhance border security, reduce illegal overstays, and streamline immigration procedures.
Under the new system, travelers will have their biometric data—fingerprints and facial images—captured upon first entry. Passport information, including full name, date of birth, and travel history, will also be recorded. On subsequent visits, travelers will be verified against stored biometric profiles. The system replaces traditional passport stamping and aligns EU border protocols with those already in place in countries like the United States.
To prevent congestion and technical delays, the rollout will be staggered. Each member state is required to have at least one operational border crossing point equipped with EES technology starting today. By April 9, 2026, all external border crossings must be fully compliant, with progressive benchmarks requiring 10% of travelers registered by day 30, 35% by day 90, and 50% by day 150.
Self-service kiosks have been installed at major airports, seaports, and land borders to facilitate registration. Travelers with biometric passports and access to e-gates will experience faster processing once enrolled in the system.
The European Commission emphasized that the EES does not alter existing visa rules or the 90/180-day stay limit for short-term visitors. However, it will provide real-time data to detect overstays and identity fraud, and support law enforcement efforts across member states.
Privacy advocates have raised concerns about data protection and surveillance, but EU officials insist the system meets the bloc’s highest standards for personal data security and transparency.
The EES is part of a broader digital transformation of EU border management, which will eventually include the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS), set to launch in late 2026.
