Entry/Exit System (EES): New border controls
On October 12, 2025, the European Union began rolling out its new digital border control system, known as the Entry/Exit System (EES).
This system is gradually replacing the manual stamp on the passports of non-European travelers with a digital, biometric record.
The aim is to enhance security, speed up border crossings and better manage the length of stay of visitors to the Schengen area.
What is SEA?
The Entry/Exit System (EES) is a European database that records :
- Date and place of entry into the Schengen area ;
- Date and place of discharge ;
- Biometric data (fingerprints and facial photos);
- Passport details for third-country nationals.
It applies only to non-EU / non-Schengen travelers entering Europe for a short stay (up to 90 days out of 180).
How does EES work?
When entering the Schengen area for the first time following the introduction of the system :
- The traveler scans his passport.
- His fingerprints and face are recorded.
- The system creates a secure digital profile.
On subsequent journeys, facial recognition or data matching will enable faster passage, without the need for a complete new survey.
What’s new for travellers
| Before | After (EES) |
|---|---|
| Manual stamp on passport | Automated digital recording |
| Visual inspection by an agent | Biometric control (fingerprints, photo) |
| It’s hard to check overstays | Automatic monitoring of length of stay |
| Risk of identity fraud | Reliable biometric verification |
Progressive implementation: according to the European authorities, implementation will take place in all Schengen countries from October 2025 to April 2026.
Entry/Exit System (EES) and ETIAS
TheEntry/Exit System (EES) is closely linked to the ETIAS system.
While the EES registers the entry, exit and biometric data of non-European travelers, the ETIAS will concern advance travel authorization for nationals of visa-exempt countries.
The two devices will work together:
- ETIAS will check the traveler’s eligibility before departure
- the EES will record biometric data and the actual stay once on site.
The common objective is to strengthen security at the European Union’s external borders, while simplifying the passage of frequent travellers thanks to the digitization and interconnection of systems.
Who is affected by the Entry/Exit System?
- These include travelers from non-EU / non-Schengen countries, tourists and short-stay visitors.
- Not concerned: European Union citizens, long-term EU residents and holders of long-stay visas