European Union plans to launch Entry/Exit System in October
European Union's Entry/Exit System (EES) to Modernize Border Management
The European Union (EU) is set to modernize its management of external borders with the introduction of the Entry/Exit System (EES), a digital and automated IT system designed to replace the manual passport stamping process. Scheduled to begin on October 12, 2025, the EES will gradually roll out over six months, starting at select air, land, and sea border points before being fully deployed across all 29 Schengen countries by April 10, 2026.
The EES is aimed at collecting biometric data, such as fingerprints and facial images, and travel information from non-EU nationals entering and leaving the Schengen Area for short stays (up to 90 days within a 180-day period). This system aims to improve border security, detect overstayers and identity fraud, streamline border checks, and enhance cooperation between Schengen states while protecting data privacy.
Magnus Brunner, Commissioner for Internal Affairs and Migration, described the EES as a key part of managing EU external borders. The system is intended to provide reliable data on border crossings, strengthening security in the Schengen Area and reducing irregular migration. It will also help identify overstayers, prevent irregular movements, and reduce document and identity fraud.
The EES is part of the EU's broader commitment to digitize and secure its external border controls. It is also a step towards future initiatives like ETIAS in 2026, which will require pre-travel authorizations for visa-exempt travelers. The EES will work closely with Member States and the transport sector to create a secure, efficient, and travel-friendly framework.
The gradual start of EES allows Member States to benefit from the new system while ensuring adjustments for border authorities, the transport industry, and affected travelers. The EES promises to result in smoother and safer travel, with an increase in automated border checks. Henna Virkkunen, Executive Vice-President for Tech Sovereignty, Security and Democracy, stated that the launch of EES brings the EU closer to becoming the most advanced travel destination in the world.
The EES is designed to digitally record the entries and exits of non-EU nationals traveling to 29 European countries. It will capture biometric data, including fingerprints, facial images, and travel information. The system will rely on the highest standards of data and privacy protection. The EES is part of the EU's Smart Borders package alongside the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) and an extended use of Automated Border Control (ABC) systems.
In summary, the EU's Entry/Exit System (EES) is a significant step towards modernizing and improving the management of EU external borders. It is set to launch on October 12, 2025, and will be fully deployed across all Schengen countries by April 10, 2026. The EES aims to improve border security, detect overstayers and identity fraud, streamline border checks, and enhance cooperation between Schengen states while protecting data privacy.
- Magnus Brunner, Commissioner for Internal Affairs and Migration, emphasizes that the EES will help identify overstayers, prevent irregular movements, and reduce document and identity fraud, leading the EU towards becoming an eco-friendly and secure travel destination with enhanced technology.
- With the upcoming launch of EES in 2025, the EU is poised to combine modern technology with eco-friendly practices, ensuring automated border checks and smoother travels, while taking significant strides in data and privacy protection.
