From 12 October 2025, the European Union will begin introducing a new Entry/Exit System (EES) at Schengen borders. This system replaces the manual passport stamping process with a digital record of your entry and exit, including basic details and biometric data (such as fingerprints and a facial image).
If you are a non-EU/Schengen national travelling to or from the Schengen Area for a short stay (up to 90 days in any 180-day period), the EES applies to you.
When you first arrive border officers will collect your biometric data (fingerprints and facial scan) along with your passport details. This will be stored securely in the EES database.
On subsequent visits, you will not need to repeat the full process — your data will already be in the system. Your entry/exit will simply be recorded digitally.
EU citizens, Schengen residents, and those holding long-stay visas or residence
permits are not affected.
Please allow extra time for border checks, especially on your first trip after the system goes live.
For more information, please visit the official EU EES information page.
Entry-Exit System - Migration and Home Affairs - European Commission