European Entry and Exit System (EES): What travelers need to know with its launch
After years of delays, the European Union is finally preparing to launch the new Entry/Exit System (EES) on October 12. This digital border control system will record the movements of travelers from outside the EU when they enter and exit the Schengen Area, with the aim of enhancing security, preventing overstays, and updating border management.
The European Commission confirmed that the system will be implemented gradually over six months starting from mid-October, and will be fully operational by early 2026 at all air, land, and sea crossings of participating member states. Travelers will notice the installation of new inspection kiosks and biometric verification points at airports, ports, and train stations.
Under the new system, citizens of the United Kingdom, the United States, and non-EU countries will be required to check in and out through self-service kiosks. Each traveler will need to scan their passport or ID and provide biometric data — such as facial recognition and fingerprints. This information will be stored for three years, facilitating border crossing later by matching the stored data with the traveler's face or fingerprints. The system does not apply to EU citizens, permanent residents, or long-term visa holders.
However, many experts and travelers have expressed concerns about the possibility of long queues and delays at border crossings, especially in busy centers. As travelers will need time to adapt to the new technology, authorities expect longer waiting times during the initial stages of implementation. The European Commission stated that it is working closely with member states to ensure a "smooth and effective launch of the system," adding that it will launch awareness campaigns at crossing points to help travelers prepare.
The EES system will later be complemented by the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS), expected to be launched at the end of 2026. Visitors from outside the European Union who do not need a visa will have to submit an electronic application for authorization before traveling to the Schengen area. The application fee is 20 euros, valid for three years or until the passport expires, and is directly linked to the passport.
To facilitate the transition to the new system, Eurostar announced modifications at St Pancras station in London. Passengers will now be able to board trains earlier, and the company will double the number of security kiosks and border inspection staff. New EES kiosks will also be added in various areas of the station to reduce congestion once the system is implemented.