Update 11th October 2024 - The EES system is delayed with no new date announced as yet.

The EU Entry/Exit System will be an automated system for registering travellers from the UK and other non-EU (or Shengen) countries each time they cross an EU external border. Using these self-service machines, you’ll need to scan your passport (or other travel documents), as well as supplying biometric data like fingerprints and captured facial images, before crossing the border at your arrival airport. The idea is to replace the current manual stamping of passports.

Getting the EES system in place is vital for the rollout of the ETIAS in the first half of 2025. More information is available on this page.

1 - Biometric Data Collection

Upon entering or exiting the Schengen Area, non-EU travellers will be required to provide biometric data, including fingerprints and facial images. This process will be quicker than manual passport checks but will require travellers to allow for additional time at border control points initially. After you land in an EU member state or Schengen Area country you’ll have to stop at a purpose-built kiosk in the airport arrival area. This is where you’ll scan your passport and share your biometric data and answer a few questions about your travel.

The good news is that once you’ve got this completed, you won’t have to do it again for three years. But if you need to renew your passport or order a replacement within that period, you will have to re-register the next time you enter the Schengen Area.

2 - Digital Record of Entries and Exits

Your entry and exit will be recorded electronically, and your stay will be automatically tracked to ensure compliance with visa requirements. The 90/180-day rule for short stays will be closely monitored. Overstaying can result in fines, bans, or future visa issues. Be mindful of your travel days within the Schengen Area.

3 - Simplified Border Crossings

Automated gates at major airports and border crossings will facilitate faster entry and exit for travellers. Frequent business travellers may find this system speeds up border crossings. However, there could be initial delays as travellers and border personnel adapt to the new system.

It is important to note that the process at airports is hoped to be much smoother than those travelling via Eurostar or ferry, where there’s a concern that the new border checks will lead to delays (in the UK this is largely due to the fact that the UK and France have an agreement whereby French border controls for overland travel can actually be completed whilst still on UK soil, rather than on arrival in France)

4 - Advance Information Requirement

Airlines and other carriers will need to submit passenger information in advance, including travel documents and biometric data. Ensure your travel documents are up-to-date and match the information provided to airlines to avoid delays or complications.

5 - Compliance with Visa Rules

The EES will enhance the enforcement of visa regulations, including short-stay visas and visa waiver programs. Business travellers should ensure they comply with visa requirements as the system will automatically flag overstays. This makes it crucial to accurately plan your travel schedule.

6 - Visa Waiver and Multiple Entries

The EES will apply to travellers from countries with visa waiver agreements, as well as those with multiple-entry visas. If you frequently travel to Europe for business, consider how the EES will track your cumulative days within the Schengen Area.

7 - Data Privacy and Security

The EES will store biometric data and travel records securely within the EU’s data protection frameworks.