Starting Sunday, the European Union will implement a new digital entry and exit system (EES) aimed at enhancing border security for travelers to the Schengen area. This system, which has seen numerous delays, will require most non-EU travelers to register biometric information upon entering the region.
The EES mandates that travelers provide their facial photographs and fingerprints before being permitted entry into the Schengen area, which consists of 25 of the 27 EU member states, along with Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland. Notably, the Republic of Ireland and Cyprus will not participate and will continue to process passports as previously done. This new procedure is intended to streamline border crossings while allowing for better tracking of entry and exit.
When travelers arrive at the border under the new EES, they will use a self-service kiosk to enter their name, passport information, and other required data. Children under 12 years old will be exempt from fingerprint scanning. The rollout of the EES will occur gradually, with initial implementations at specific locations like the port of Dover and Eurostar terminals. By April 10, 2026, the system is expected to be fully operational.
Concerns have been raised about potential delays due to the additional processing time required by the EES. However, authorities at the port of Dover have suggested that coach drivers should arrive no more than two hours in advance, and Eurostar has indicated that the check-in time can be managed within their existing timelines.
Data collected through the EES will be stored for three years, with specific usage limitations and conditions governing its transfer to other entities. Failure to provide the necessary biometric data could result in a denial of entry. As this system is introduced, it raises questions regarding its impact on traveler experience and security effectiveness.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/oct/12/new-eu-new-border-system-ees-delays