New European Entry System: What you need to know

The European Entry/Exit System (EES) starts on 12 October 2025, replacing traditional passport stamping for non-EU travellers, including Australians and New Zealanders entering the Schengen Area.

It will be rolled out gradually across 29 countries (all Schengen member states plus associate states) and fully implemented by 10 April 2026.

What is the EES?

The EES is a digital system that registers entry and exit data of third-country nationals (visa-exempt or short-stay visa holders) through biometrics – fingerprints, facial image, date and place of crossing – and stores this in a central EU database.

It automates border control, replaces passport stamping, helps detect overstayers, and enhances security and efficiency

Do you need to do apply for EES before you leave?

You do not need to apply for EES before you travel. EES is not a visa, and if you are visa-exempt and staying in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days, there is nothing you need to do in advance. Your information will be collected automatically when you arrive at the border.

Who must register at the border?

You must register if you are:

• a non-EU/EEA/Swiss national, whether visa-exempt or requiring a short-stay visa, entering the Schengen Area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period

You do not need to register if you:

• are an EU, EEA or Swiss citizen
• hold a Schengen visa, residence permit, or a relevant residence card
• are in a special category (e.g. cross-border worker, crew, diplomatic, or transit in international zones).

How does it work?

First entry after 12 October 2025
You’ll submit fingerprints and a facial image at border control (this is a one-off requirement). If you are visa-exempt and entering the Schengen Area for up to 90 days, there is nothing you need to do for the European Entry/Exit System (EES) before you arrive.

Subsequent crossings
Your entries and exits are logged automatically and digitally – no more passport stamps.

Record validity
Your EES record is valid for up to three years, or until your passport expires – whichever comes first.

Overstay monitoring
Border guards can instantly check your accumulated days in the Schengen Area to enforce the 90 days in any 180-day rule.

What to expect at the border

• Some delays are likely during your first entry due to biometric checks – plan for extra time.
• If you are entering via the Port of Dover, Eurotunnel (Folkestone) or St Pancras (Eurostar), biometric checks will happen before departure from the UK.
• Subsequent entries will be faster and more streamlined once registered.

Key things to remember

1. Start date: 12 October 2025 (phased until 10 April 2026)
2. Who it applies to: Non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals, visa-exempt or short-stay visa travellers
3. Not a visa: It simply records border crossings – it does not grant entry rights
4. First visit: One-off biometric collection required
5. Audit: Authorities can track overstays via digital logs
6. Benefits to travellers: More secure and efficient future crossings, with e-gate access in many airports.

Learn more!

We strongly encourage you to learn more at: https://travel-europe.europa.eu/en/ees

Please note that we are unable to provide visa advice. For guidance on individual circumstances, you should contact the relevant local consulate or embassy.