Starting April 10, 2026, the European Entry/Exit System (EES) will fully operate at all external border crossing points of the Schengen Area. This was announced by the EU Diplomatic Service.
The system, which began rolling out in stages on October 12, 2025, will now become mandatory at all border crossings in 29 European countries using Schengen rules. EES will completely replace traditional passport stamps with electronic records.
Upon each entry and exit, biometric data from non-EU citizens will be scanned: fingerprints and facial images.
The system will automatically record the date and time of border crossing, passport details, and information on any entry refusals. This will enable more precise tracking of compliance with the “90 days within 180 days” rule. Passport stamps will no longer be used—all records will be stored in a unified EU digital database.
The phased rollout of EES began in the fall of 2025 to allow border services and travelers to adapt. From April 10, 2026, the transition period ends, and the system will operate at full capacity across all external borders—in airports, seaports, and land crossings.
The European Commission emphasizes that the new system will make border control more modern, faster, and secure, while reducing risks of illegal migration and overstays.
Travelers are advised to check information on official websites of destination countries in advance and be prepared for possible queues in the first weeks after full launch.