The entry into operations of the European Entry Exit System (EES) took place on the 12th of October 2025.
EES is an automated IT system for registering travellers from third-countries, both short-stay visa holders and visa exempt travellers, each time they cross an external border of the Schengen area. The system registers the person's name, type of the travel document, biometric data (fingerprints and captured facial images) and the date and place of entry and exit, in full respect of fundamental rights and data protection.
It also records refusals of entry. EES replaces the system of manual stamping of passports.
EES contributes to prevent irregular migration and help protect the security of European citizens. The new system will also help identifying more efficiently over-stayers as well as cases of document and identity fraud.