EU Plans October Rollout for EES Biometric Border Checks

The EU’s long-delayed Entry/Exit System (EES) could finally launch in October, following an agreement reached between member states.

The EES, designed to replace passport stamps for non-EU nationals, was initially set to begin last November but faced last-minute delays. Under the new plan—pending European Parliament approval—the system will be rolled out gradually over six months.

“We are aiming for October,” said Polish Interior Minister Tomasz Siemoniak, whose country currently holds the rotating EU presidency. However, the European Commission must confirm the final start date.

Once in place, the automated system will record travellers' entry and exit dates, track overstays, and register refused entries. Travellers will have their biometric data such as facial images and fingerprints collected upon entering or leaving the EU or Schengen zone. However, the system will not apply to travel within the Schengen area or to non-EU residents of an EU country.

The rollout plan includes operating EES at half of border crossings within three months and full implementation within six months. However, concerns remain about potential delays at key transport hubs, with London’s Mayor Sadiq Khan and Port of Dover officials warning of long queues.

In a related move, the UK has launched its own system, the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), which will be required for travellers on EU, EEA, or Swiss passports from April 2, 2025.

What Is the Entry/Exit System (EES)?

The Entry/Exit System (EES) is a new EU border control system designed to modernise external border checks by replacing traditional passport stamps with biometric screening.

It will apply to non-EU visitors travelling for tourism or business, allowing stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Upon arrival, travellers will need to present their passports, have their photo taken, and provide fingerprint scans. All entries and exits from the Schengen Area will be digitally recorded.

The system aims to track overstays, prevent identity fraud, and improve border security through real-time data sharing. It will be implemented in all EU member states (except Cyprus and Ireland) and four Schengen-associated countries—Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland. Cyprus and Ireland will continue using manual passport stamps.

Do you need to renew your passport? Talk to us in the comment section below. Or if you need more advice on the above, contact us for further travel & immigration advice.

Check out the deals we have found below and tell us your travel plans.

Check out the offers and discounts from:

And because of the pandemic, don’t forget to get your travel insurance, which will cover you for flight disruptions and pandemic related matters.

IaM can help with your visa application to Europe, the United States, the UK & other countries

If you need help with a US visa, a UK Visa, or a visa to Europe, including help with appointment booking obligations, IaM can help. For more information and advice on US immigration, UK immigration law and US visa applications or if you need any help or assistance please, reach out to your Visa Coordinator at IaM.

Some of our posts include affiliate links. If you choose to purchase any of these products, we might get a small commission. For more information, check out our TOS.