As of 12 October 2025, the Entry/Exit System (EES) — established under Regulation (EU) 2017/2226 — has entered into operation.
The EES is a centralized automated IT system for the registration of the entry and exit of third-country nationals crossing the external Schengen borders for short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
This new system aims to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of border controls, thereby improving security at the European level.
The EES applies both to third-country nationals who require a visa for short stays and to those exempt from visa requirements, and it will replace the practice of stamping passports, while at the same time providing reliable data on crossings of the external borders.
The system does not apply to:
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third-country nationals holding a national long-stay visa or a residence permit issued by a Schengen State,
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citizens of San Marino, the Principality of Andorra, the Principality of Monaco, and Vatican City,
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citizens of the European Economic Area (EEA) and the Swiss Confederation,
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crew members,
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Sovereigns, Heads of State, and members of official delegations.
The new procedures will affect the time required for border control operations due to the additional formalities involved.
The EES will be fully operational from 10 April 2026.
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