The European Commission has launched the Entry/Exit System (EES), developed to enhance the security of the Schengen area’s borders and to digitise entry and exit procedures. The new system will be introduced with a six-month transition period starting on 12 October 2025.
With the EES, all short-term trips made by non-EU citizens to the Schengen area will be digitally recorded, including entry and exit dates, passport information, fingerprints, and facial images as biometric data.
A New Era: Digital Border Tracking
In a statement from the European Commission, it was noted that the system would be rolled out gradually, and the necessary support would be provided to passengers, border security units, and the transport sector to adapt to the new procedures.
“The launch of the EES in October marks a significant milestone in the EU’s goal of establishing safer and more efficient border management.”
– European Commission
Thanks to this system, it will become easier to identify individuals who overstay their visas or remain in the area illegally. Additionally, the automation of border procedures is expected to reduce processing times.
How Will the System Work?
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It will apply to non-EU citizens.
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Passport data, fingerprints, and facial recognition information will be collected upon first entry.
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All data will be stored in a digital database.
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Re-entry for the same individuals will be facilitated; issues such as forged documents and identity verification will be reduced.
