Entry/Exit System: European Commission sets launch date to 12 October 2025

On 30 July, the European Commission set 12 October as the launch date for the progressive start of operations of the EU’s Entry/Exit System (EES).

The EES is an advanced technological system that will digitally record the entries and exits of non-EU nationals travelling to 29 European countries, including Schengen Associated ones, for short stays. It will capture biometric data, such as fingerprints, facial image, and other travel information, gradually replacing the current system of passport stamping.  

The EES will modernise and improve the management of EU external borders. It will provide reliable data on border crossings, systematically detect overstayers and cases of document and identity fraud. 

The new system meets the highest standards of data and privacy protection, ensuring that travellers’ personal data remain protected and secure. 

From 12 October onwards, Member States will start introducing the EES gradually over a period of six months. Border authorities will progressively register the data of third country nationals crossing the borders. At the end of this period, the EES will be fully deployed at all border crossing points.

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Press release