Starting Oct. 12, European countries using the new Entry/Exit System will slowly introduce it at external borders. What does this mean for U.S. travelers? In short, no more passport stamps. Instead, non-E.U. citizens traveling to specific E.U. countries for short stays (up to 90 days within any 180-day period) will be required to provide scans of fingerprints and faces.

When travelers arrive to an airport with EES, they must answer questions, which will create a record of the traveler’s details (date of birth, name, etc.) This record is then held for three years, meaning only fingerprints or photographs thereafter will be used for reentry in that timeframe.

The entire system is scheduled to be in full effect by April 10, 2026. The initial rollout may cause some delays, but is expected to smooth out in time, creating a more streamlined process.

Where will EES apply once fully in effect?

• Austria
• Belgium
• Bulgaria
• Croatia
• Czech Republic
• Denmark
• Estonia
• Finland
• France
• Germany
• Greece
• Hungary
• Iceland (non-EU)
• Italy
• Latvia
• Liechtenstein (non-EU)
• Lithuanian
• Luxembourg
• Malta
• Netherlands
• Norway (non-EU)
• Poland
• Portugal
• Romania
• Slovakia
• Slovenia
• Spain
• Sweden
• Switzerland (non-EU)

Why the new system? EES aims to make border checks more modern and efficient, as well as faster and easier for travelers. It also plans to prevent irregular migration, including those who come in and out of the Schengen Area, using fingerprints and face data to stop people from overstaying, using fake identities or misusing visa-free travel. EES also gives border officers and law enforcement authorities access to important traveler information, helping them spot security risks and support the fight against serious crimes and terrorism.

Exemptions apply to citizens (dual citizens require a valid E.U. passport or national identity card) of the EU, Andorra, San Marino, Monaco, the Holy See and European Free Trade Association. It also applies to foreign citizens holding a residence permit or residence card issued by an E.U. or Schengen country (including British beneficiaries of the Brexit Withdrawal Agreement), long-stay Schengen visa and valid local border traffic permit holders.

U.S. embassies in participating countries already released statements for U.S. citizens traveling to countries utilizing EES. Learn more.

What do you think of the new system? Do you think other countries should implement similar systems? Email us at letters@globaltravelerusa.com. Please include your full name and location.