What Is the Entry/Exit System?
Preparations are underway for the near launch of the European Union’s new Entry/Exit system (EES) on October 12, 2025. Soon, the system will effectively replace manual passport stamping for non-EU nationals entering or exiting the Schengen Area.
The EES will scan travelers’ fingerprints and facial images, as well as note their passport details. Overall, such data will strengthen the EU’s border security and streamline processing.
Estonia First EES-Ready Country
Estonia has confirmed that it will fully operate the EES across air, land, sea, and road checkpoints from day one.
On the other hand, Luxembourg is also fully prepared, though on a smaller scale due to fewer border posts.
Meanwhile, most Schengen countries are still testing their infrastructure and will join gradually. According to the European Commission, 27 Schengen states must connect more than 100 major checkpoints to the system.
Gradual EES Rollout
Across Europe, airports and border posts are installing new kiosks to capture fingerprints and facial data. In time, the system will apply to both visa holders and visa-exempt visitors, including travelers from the United Kingdom and the United States.
According to Identity Week, more than 30 million non-EU visitors enter Schengen annually, making biometric capacity critical.
Phased EES Rollout Until 2026
Although the system starts in October, a phased rollout will continue for six months until April 2026.
Consequently, travelers may face different requirements depending on their point of entry. Some posts will run EES only, while others will use both stamping and digital checks during the transition.
Notably, officials emphasize that full consistency will be reached only after spring 2026.
Concerns Over UK Border Delays
UK travelers are expected to feel the most immediate impact. For instance, Eurotunnel, which handles over 20 million passengers yearly, has warned of possible disruption. However, the operator says a phased approach should prevent chaos.
“As you will see, EES will have a minimal impact, not exactly zero, but a minimal impact on the time to cross the Channel,” commented Yann Leriche, Eurotunnel chief executive.
“Anyone who is not ready is not because it was impossible or a huge challenge,” he added.
Similarly, UK ports are preparing new facilities to handle biometric processing for cars, coaches, and freight vehicles separately.
What Travelers Should Expect
From October, all non-EU nationals must provide fingerprints and a live facial image during their first Schengen trip. Effectively, their entry record will then remain valid for three years before re-enrollment.
Hence, travelers should also allow more time at border posts, especially during the first months of the EES transition. Furthermore, many countries are advising passengers to pre-register information online once portals become available.
Looking Ahead
The EES is a crucial step toward modernizing Schengen border management. After full rollout, the EU will introduce ETIAS, a travel authorization for visa-exempt nationals, scheduled for 2026.
Together, these systems aim to improve security, reduce illegal stays, and simplify travel. Nevertheless, the success of the rollout will depend on smooth cooperation among member states and effective communication with travelers.
Photo by Nick Night on Unsplash
