Germany Joins Spain, France, Portugal, Italy, Greece, Netherlands, and More in Europe’s New Travel Rules, Introducing Biometric Entry and Exit System for Canadian Travelers

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Germany has joined Spain, France, Portugal, Italy, Greece, the Netherlands, and several other European countries in adopting a new set of travel regulations, which include the introduction of the European Entry/Exit System (EES). This system will require Canadian travelers to provide biometric data, such as fingerprints and facial images, upon entering the Schengen Area. The primary reason for this overhaul is to streamline border controls, enhance security, and track traveler movements more efficiently. By April 2026, the EES will significantly transform the entry and exit process for Canadians, making border crossings faster, more secure, and more technologically advanced across these key European nations.

As of April 10, 2026, new European travel regulations will significantly impact travelers, particularly those arriving from outside the European Union (EU), including Canada. The new measures focus on simplifying and securing entry and exit processes while enhancing border control systems across the Schengen Area and other European countries. The introduction of the European Union Entry/Exit System (EES) and European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) will fundamentally change the way Canadian travelers visit Europe. This article delves into how these regulations will affect Canadians planning to explore Europe, specifically the Schengen Area and non-Schengen countries.

The European Entry/Exit System (EES)

The EES is a landmark initiative aimed at modernizing European border control procedures for non-EU travelers. It is set to enhance the security of European borders and facilitate the movement of legitimate travelers. This digital system will track the entry and exit of visitors, replacing traditional passport stamps with a completely digital process. By collecting biometric data, such as fingerprints and facial images, the EES will create a more secure and efficient system for tracking movement within the Schengen Area.

Travelers will be required to submit biometric data at their point of entry, and this will be retained for three years. This data will help European authorities manage overstays, entry denials, and ensure compliance with the 90-day stay limit that applies to visitors from non-EU countries. For Canadian travelers, this means that biometric information will be collected when they arrive at their chosen Schengen destination.

Countries Affected by the EES

The new travel regulations under the EES will directly affect travelers heading to countries within the Schengen Area, which includes a vast number of European nations. These countries, part of an agreement that eliminates internal border controls, will all adopt the new entry/exit system. However, countries that are not part of the Schengen Area will have their own set of regulations and will not implement the EES.

Schengen Area Countries:

The following countries are included in the Schengen Area and will be implementing the EES from April 2026:

• Austria
• Belgium
• Bulgaria
• Croatia
• Czechia
• Denmark
• Estonia
• Finland
• France
• Germany
• Greece
• Hungary
• Iceland
• Italy
• Latvia
• Liechtenstein
• Lithuania
• Luxembourg
• Malta
• Netherlands
• Norway
• Poland
• Portugal
• Romania
• Slovakia
• Slovenia
• Spain
• Sweden
• Switzerland

Travelers visiting these countries will experience a completely digital system for entering and exiting, with biometric data being collected on arrival. For Canadian tourists, this means faster processing times and streamlined entry procedures, though they will need to be prepared to provide their biometric information during their visit.

The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS)

In addition to the EES, another significant change for Canadian travelers is the upcoming European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS). While not yet operational, ETIAS is slated to be implemented soon and will require travelers from non-EU countries, including Canada, to apply for authorization before entering any of the Schengen Area countries.

ETIAS will function similarly to the U.S. ESTA system. Canadian travelers will need to apply online for travel authorization, which will be valid for three years. The application process is simple and should not take long, but travelers must be aware of the need to apply before departure. Failure to do so may result in denied entry. ETIAS is designed to further secure European borders by pre-screening visitors before they arrive, ensuring that only travelers who meet the requirements can enter the Schengen Area.

What This Means for Canadian Travelers

Canadian citizens can visit the Schengen Area countries without a visa for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. However, the new entry and exit requirements under the EES will affect all travelers from Canada. Here’s what Canadian travelers can expect:

1. Biometric Data Collection: When entering the Schengen Area, Canadian travelers will be required to submit biometric data, such as fingerprints and facial images. This information will be stored for three years, making it unnecessary to resubmit the data for repeat visits during this time.
2. Seamless Border Crossing: The EES aims to make border crossing faster and more efficient by using digital systems and reducing manual interventions. Canadian travelers can expect to spend less time at border controls, provided they comply with the new biometric registration process.
3. ETIAS Authorization: While ETIAS is not yet active, Canadian travelers will need to obtain this authorization once it is live. This will apply to those traveling to Schengen Area countries for short stays (up to 90 days). The ETIAS will be valid for three years and can be used for multiple entries during that period.

Non-Schengen Countries and Their Regulations

Although the Schengen Area comprises the majority of European nations, some countries in Europe are not part of the Schengen Area and will follow their own entry and exit regulations. These countries include:

• Albania
• Belarus
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Cyprus
• Ireland
• North Macedonia
• Moldova
• Montenegro
• Russia
• Serbia
• United Kingdom (UK)
• Ukraine

United Kingdom (UK) – ETA Requirement

One of the most significant changes for Canadian travelers is the new Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) requirement for those traveling to the United Kingdom (UK). As of February 25, 2026, Canadian travelers will need to apply for an ETA before entering the UK. This authorization is valid for two years and can be used for multiple visits during that time. However, if a traveler gets a new passport, they will need to apply for a new ETA.

The ETA requirement applies to all visitors except those traveling through the UK’s airports without going through border control or those who are dual nationals with a British passport. Travelers who have a valid visa or permission to live, work, or study in the UK will not need an ETA.

Caution Regarding Fraudulent Websites

As with any new travel regulation, travelers must be cautious when applying for travel authorizations like ETIAS and ETA. There have been reports of fraudulent websites offering these services at inflated prices or claiming to provide guarantees for entry into Europe. It is essential that travelers apply for ETIAS and ETA authorizations only through the official government websites to avoid scams.

Germany has joined Spain, France, Portugal, Italy, Greece, the Netherlands, and more in implementing the European Entry/Exit System (EES) for Canadian travelers, requiring biometric data for faster, more secure border crossings and improved tracking of traveler movements starting April 2026.

The introduction of the European Entry/Exit System (EES) and the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) represents a significant shift in how European borders are managed. For Canadian travelers, these changes will streamline the entry process and enhance security across the continent. While the transition to digital border controls and biometric data collection may seem daunting, it ultimately promises faster, more efficient travel for those who comply with the new regulations. As European travel continues to evolve, Canadian travelers should stay informed and prepared to navigate these upcoming changes.