### Europe’s New Entry/Exit System (EES): What Travelers Need to Know
Europe’s long-delayed **Entry/Exit System (EES)** is finally set to launch in phases starting **October 12, 2025**, with full implementation expected by **April 10, 2026**. This automated border control system will register **non-EU travelers** using biometric data—including fingerprints and facial scans—to track entries, exits, and overstays across **29 European countries**, including most EU member states and Schengen nations like Switzerland and Norway. The EES aims to enhance border security, streamline processes, and reduce manual passport checks, though travelers may face initial delays as they adapt to the new requirements.
### How the EES Will Affect US and Other Non-EU Travelers
When entering Europe under the EES, travelers will need to provide **passport details** and undergo **biometric scanning** (fingerprints and facial recognition) at their first border checkpoint. Children under **12** are exempt from fingerprinting. While the system may speed up future entries by eliminating passport stamps, the initial rollout could lead to longer wait times. Some countries may offer **pre-registration via mobile apps** or self-service kiosks, but travelers will still need to interact with border officers. Data will be stored for **three years**, and individuals can request access, corrections, or deletion of their records.
### Additional Changes: ETIAS Fee Increase and Future Travel Requirements
The EES is just one part of Europe’s broader border modernization. The **European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS)**, launching in late **2026**, will require visa-exempt travelers (including Americans) to obtain pre-approval for short stays. The application fee has been raised from **€7 to €20** (about **$23**), adding another layer of preparation for visitors. These changes reflect Europe’s push toward **digital border management**, balancing security with smoother travel experiences. For the latest updates, travelers should check official EU resources before their trips.
*Related reading: [ETIAS guide](https://travel.europe.eu), [Schengen visa rules](https://europa.eu).*
Ez a cikk a Neural News AI (V1) verziójával készült.
Forrás: https://thepointsguy.com/news/new-european-border-control-system-fall-launch/.