The European Union rolled out The Entry/Exit System (EES) , a digital border system on 12 October, 2025. The implementation of the EES will be phased in. Countries are implementing this through April 10, 2026. During this time, some borders may have EES and others still have stamping of passports.
Mixed Experiences at the Border
From today, Friday 9 January, the EU Entry Exit System (EES), will be increasing the number of airports and ports that have the new system in operation, as well as the number of passengers going through the system. From long queues, to smooth passage the passengers have had varied experiences with EES so far, but the going may get tough as the number of airports increase.
EES replaced the manual stamping of passports by an electronic registration system at the external borders of 29 European countries. The system registers all non-EU nationals arriving for short stays (not to exceed 90 days within any 180 days) in the Schengen countries.
What the EES Records
Under the new system, travellers’ details are electronically registered, including:
- Personal data from the travel document
- Fingerprints and facial images
- Dates of entry and exit
- Records of any refused entries
This data is stored for up to three years and is designed to improve border management, detect overstays, and enhance security across the Schengen Zone
Mark Tanzer, Chief Executive of ABTA – The Travel Association said: “The EES is a change to how we travel to and from Europe, and while eventually it will make passport checks quicker, initially it may take longer. As more places introduce the system, and more passengers are processed through it, there is a greater risk that people will face queues and delays. It’s important travellers are prepared for this as they prepare to go through passport control."
ABTA is urging border authorities to make full use of available contingency measures, including temporarily standing down the system or limiting checks when necessary, to manage passenger flow and reduce disruption.
“Where problems have been experienced so far, some of these could have been avoided if the contingency measures were applied.”
Key Benefits of the Entry/Exit System
Making Border Checks More Modern and Efficient: The EES will gradually replace passport stamps with a digital system that records when travellers enter and exit, making border checks faster and helping staff to work more efficiently.
Making Travel Across Borders Easier and Faster: With EES, travellers will spend less time at the border thanks to faster checks, self-service options, and the possibility to give their information in advance.
Preventing Irregular Migration: The EES will help track who comes in and out of the Schengen Area, using fingerprint and face data to stop people from overstaying, using fake identities or misusing visa-free travel.
Increasing the security in the Schengen Area: The EES will give border officers and law enforcement authorities access to important traveller information, helping them to spot security risks and support the fight against serious crimes and terrorism.
ETIAS to Follow in 2026
The EU’s Directorate-General for Migration and Home Affairs has confirmed that the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) is expected to launch in the final quarter of 2026. However, due to planned transitional and grace periods, travellers will not be required to hold ETIAS authorisation until 2027.
For now, travellers are advised to allow extra time at borders, stay informed about which entry points have EES in operation, and prepare for possible delays as the system continues its gradual expansion.
