EES

The EES (Entry/Exit System) is a new European Union regulation that has been gradually coming into force since October 12, 2025. It is a computer system for recording the entries and exits of third-country nationals* traveling for a short stay in the Schengen area. EES allows for the collection of data such as passport scans, fingerprints, and facial images, as well as the dates, times, and locations of border crossings.

This information is stored in a common European database with the aim of facilitating the monitoring of stays and strengthening the security of the Schengen area's borders.

The EES system applies to travelers who are not citizens of the European Union or countries associated with the Schengen area (such as Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, or Switzerland) traveling for a stay of up to 3 months in the Schengen area.

Gradual rollout: The system will be gradually installed at the airport starting October 12, 2025, with full implementation scheduled for April 10, 2026. 
Arrival procedure: Travelers subject to EES must go to the border crossing point and follow the “all passports” line for checks. Self-service automated check-in kiosks are being deployed to streamline and speed up border crossings.
Exemptions: Children under 12 are exempt from fingerprinting.

Transit time: Allow a little extra time for border control, as biometric data recording may add a few minutes to the process.

* Third countries: Travelers who are not citizens of any European Union country or of Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, or Switzerland and who are making a “short stay” corresponding to a maximum duration of 90 days.