EU to launch digital Entry/Exit System for short-stay visas from October 12

The European Union (EU) has announced that its Entry/Exit System (EES) will come into operation on October 12, 2025, digitising the recording of arrivals and departures in the Schengen Area. The system replaces traditional passport stamps for short-stay visa holders and represents the most significant reform of EU border control procedures in decades.

The EES records travellers’ entry and exit digitally, capturing biometric data including fingerprints and facial scans, to improve both security and accuracy in monitoring travellers.

Travellers entering Europe after the system’s implementation will need to register their biometric information on their first trip, either via self-service kiosks or with immigration officers, including passport scans, fingerprinting, and facial photos. The data will be stored for up to three years, allowing verification on subsequent trips without re-registration.

The rollout schedule is as follows:

• October 12, 2025 - April 10, 2026: EES will be gradually implemented across member states; some border posts may still stamp passports.
• From April 10, 2026: EES will be fully operational across 29 Schengen countries, and all passport stamps will be discontinued.

Certain groups are exempt from EES, including EU citizens (including those from Cyprus and Ireland), family members or dependents of EU citizens with residence rights, travellers for research, study, training, volunteering, or exchange programmes, and holders of long-stay visas or residence permits.

The introduction of EES is a major step in enhancing security and efficiency at EU borders. Travellers planning to visit Europe in late 2025 and 2026 are advised to allow sufficient time for initial registration at airports or border checkpoints.

For further information, travellers can check the official EU resources.