The has begun rolling out its new Entry/Exit System (EES) across the Schengen Zone, marking a major shift in how travellers enter and leave Europe.
The system applies to popular destinations including , , , and , and is designed to enhance border security while modernising travel procedures.
What is the Entry/Exit System (EES)?
The EES is a digital border control system that replaces traditional passport stamping with biometric registration. Travellers from outside the Schengen area — including those from the UK — will now have their fingerprints and a facial image recorded when entering Europe.
This allows authorities to automatically track entries and exits, helping prevent overstays and strengthening migration controls.
What travellers should expect
For those travelling to Schengen countries, the process will change in several key ways:
- Biometric registration on arrival: Fingerprints and a photo will be taken at the border during the first visit.
- No pre-registration required: Travellers do not need to complete any forms before departure.
- Data validity: Biometric data will remain valid for three years.
- Automated tracking: Entry and exit movements will be digitally recorded instead of stamped in passports.
Children under 11 will not be required to provide fingerprints but may still need to have their photograph taken.
Possible delays at borders
Travellers should expect longer processing times, especially during the initial rollout phase. Additional checks and biometric collection may slow queues at major European entry points.
Countries affected
The system will apply across the Schengen Area, including countries such as Italy, the Netherlands, Sweden and Switzerland. However, and the Republic of Ireland are not part of Schengen and will not implement the EES.
What’s next: ETIAS coming in 2026
The EES is part of a broader EU border strategy. Later in 2026, the bloc plans to introduce the (ETIAS).
Once launched, travellers from visa-exempt countries will need to apply ონლაინ for travel authorisation before entering the Schengen area.
A new era for European travel
The introduction of the EES signals a major transformation in European border management. While travellers may face initial delays, the system aims to deliver faster, more secure and fully digital border controls in the long term.
For those planning trips to Greece and across Europe, understanding the new process will be key to ensuring a smooth journey.