What is the Entry/Exit System (EES)?

The EES is a centralized digital database that records entries and exits of non-EU nationals crossing external Schengen borders. Instead of stamping passports, border authorities will capture:

• Passport details and nationality
• Biometric data (facial image and fingerprints where applicable)
• Dates/time and place of entry and exit
• Any refusals of entry or stay

Why the switch to EES?

Officials say EES will:

• Reduce identity fraud and detect overstays more reliably
• Allow faster checks using automated tools once a traveller’s data exists
• Provide authorities with better, centralized records for security and immigration control

Rollout timeline — key dates

The system is being launched in phases to avoid disruption and allow training of border staff. Important timeline highlights:

• Phased start: initial rollout begins in the final quarter of 2025.
• Progressive activation: biometric functions activated gradually across crossings over several months.
• Full deployment: all major external Schengen border points expected to be covered by spring 2026.

Who will be affected?

EES applies to most visitors who are not EU/EEA/Swiss citizens. Exceptions or special rules include:

• Children under a certain age may be exempt from fingerprinting.
• EU/EEA/Swiss citizens continue to use existing ID rules.
• Holders of long-term residence permits and some visa categories may follow different procedures.

How the process works — step by step

1. Arrival: travellers present passport at a kiosk or border desk where passport data is read.
2. Biometrics: system captures a facial image and fingerprints for first-time entries (or when required).
3. Record creation: EES stores the entry record; on exit the database is updated to show departure.
4. Checks: border guards can instantly see previous entries, exits and refusals to verify lawful stay.

Possible travel impacts

While EES aims to speed up routine crossings in the long run, travellers should be aware of short-term impacts:

• Longer processing time at some points during the initial months.
• Occasional temporary suspensions of biometric processing at very busy crossings to ease queues.
• Travel authorizations (like the upcoming ETIAS) will work alongside EES and may require pre-travel steps.

Data protection and retention

Collected data will be stored in secure systems for a set period to allow authorities to check stays and detect fraud. The EU has rules governing access, retention length, and legal safeguards—travellers can request information about their EES records under data-protection rights.

What travellers should do now

• Allow extra time at border crossings, especially during the initial rollout.
• Carry valid travel documents and make sure passport details are up to date.
• If you travel frequently, keep records of entry/exit dates and any official receipts in case you need to correct EES errors later.
• Watch for instructions from airlines and border authorities about kiosks and biometrics.

Summary at a glance