Starting this fall, visitors to Europe will need to register with an automated entry/exit system (EES). This applies to U.S. citizens for short term stays, defined as 90 days within a 180-day period. This is not a visa, but there are some steps to be aware of beforehand. The EES program is being gradually rolled out across Europe, starting on October 12, 2025, with full implementation expected by April 2026. Here’s what you need to know about these upcoming changes.
Who is EES for? The new EES system is for non-EU nationals traveling for a short stay each time they cross the external borders of 29 countries in Europe. If you’re planning a vacation in Europe, this likely impacts you. Note that even though Ireland is part of the European Union, EES is not being implemented there, nor is it applicable for visitors to the U.K.
What steps do I need to take to comply with EES? When you arrive in Europe, your travel document and other personal data will be collected including fingerprints and facial biometrics. Your entry and exit dates will also be recorded, and if you overstay your limit (typically 90 days), this will be recorded as well. Exactly how this information will be collected varies by country and airport. In some cases, once you arrive, you will proceed to a self-service system to collect the information before going to a border control lane. Some information may also be entered with your phone. Regardless, the border control agent will scan your passport and verify all EES information is on file before granting you entry.
Why is this being implemented? The purpose of EES is to better secure Europe’s borders and to streamline the entry/exit process. This will replace physical stamps in most passports, and with the self-service systems it should eventually reduce wait times at border checkpoints. With a unified system in place across Europe, it will also allow law enforcement to better track people who overstay their limit, use fake documents, or commit other crimes.
How will my personal data be used? For most visitors, personal information including biometric data will be kept for 3 years. This means if you visit Europe again during the three-year period, a border agent may just need to verify that your information is still accurate. This information is available to border agents and law enforcement. While you won’t be able to enter the EU without complying with the EES, the EU has implemented safeguards to protect your personal data, and you have a right to access to your data if desired.
Specific circumstances. Some travelers may be exempt from the EES including if you hold dual citizenship with an EU country or have close family ties to an EU national. Children under 12 will not need to have their fingerprints scanned. Additionally, EES relies on you having a biometric passport, which is a passport with the embedded RFID chip in it. Most passports at this point are biometric. If yours is not, you can still be admitted to the EU but there will be additional screening steps.
Similar to the U.S., Europe is looking for ways to make their borders more secure and to streamline border crossings for those with the right to visit. While the EES is an extra step to be aware of, it shouldn’t deter you from visiting all the remarkable sites that Europe offers. Contact us to start crafting your European getaway today! We’ll keep you updated on EES so you’re prepared before departure.
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