New European Entry and Exit System (EES)
Please be aware that from 12 October 2025, 25 EU Countries and 4 Schengen Associated Countries will begin introducing a new security system to replace the need for manually stamping passports. The Entry/Exit System (EES) will be deployed gradually across the external borders of the 29 European countries over a period of 6 months.
This will apply to most short-stay travellers who are non-EU nationals. Biometrics will now be taken, including fingerprint and facial scanning (children under 12 are exempt from fingerprinting) to help border staff process travellers more efficiently.
What does this mean for you?
If you are a non-EU passenger arriving in one of the 29 participating countries, you may need to go through these new security checks. You may also experience longer processing times at passport control during the rollout of the new system. Please be mindful of this when planning onward travel or arranging car hire at your arrival airport.
If you’d like more information on the EES, please visit the EU’s website
