The European Commission has announced that the Entry/Exit System (EES) will begin operating on 12 October 2025. From that date, Member States will start a gradual rollout of the system over a six-month period. By the end of that phase, the EES will be fully operational at all external border crossing points of the Schengen area.
⏺️ What is the Entry/Exit System and how does it work?
The new system will progressively replace the manual stamping of passports and will digitally record the entries and exits of third-country nationals entering the Schengen area for short stays. It will also collect biometric data, such as fingerprints and facial images, and help calculate the exact number of days a traveller is allowed to remain.
The main objectives are to enhance security at the EU’s external borders, detect overstays, prevent identity and document fraud, and improve the efficiency of border checks — all while ensuring full compliance with data protection regulations.
⏺️ How will the EES be implemented?
During the rollout period, the system’s implementation may vary depending on the country and point of entry. The European Commission has announced that awareness campaigns will be carried out at airports and border crossings to support travellers, border authorities, and transport operators as they adapt to the new procedures.
The technical deployment will be carried out in coordination with eu-LISA, the EU Agency responsible for the operational management of large-scale IT systems in the area of freedom, security, and justice.
The EES is part of the broader Smart Borders package, which also includes the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) and the expanded use of automated border control systems (ABC gates). Together, these initiatives aim to modernise border management and provide a more streamlined and secure travel experience.
⏺️ ARC Legal can help you navigate these changes
At ARC Legal, we help you understand how these changes may affect your travel plans, clarify your immigration status, and prepare the necessary documentation so that you can travel with full legal certainty. You can contact us to review your case and receive personalised guidance throughout the process.
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Prefer to read this article in Spanish 🇪🇸? Click here: Confirmada la fecha de inicio del SES en las fronteras Schengen: 12 de octubre de 2025
The information provided in this article is for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and timeliness of the content, immigration regulations are subject to change and interpretation by the relevant authorities. For personalised and up-to-date guidance, we recommend consulting an immigration lawyer.