The European Commission officially published the launch date of the EU Entry/Exit System (EES) as October 12, 2025. As announced earlier this year, this will be a progressive launch—phased over a six-month period—with a full implementation expected by April 10, 2026.
The EES is an automated border registration system that all travellers will pass through when entering and exiting the external borders of the Schengen area. It will digitally record the short stay of non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals—both visa-required and visa-exempt—by collecting personal, travel and biometric data (facial image and fingerprints), and effectively replace passport stamps.
Upon a traveler’s first entry under EES, biometric data will be collected and stored under an individual digital file. While some countries may provide self-service kiosks or mobile apps as part of the process, registration by a passport control officer will be mandatory during the initial entry. During subsequent entries, and provided biometric data was previously recorded, only verification and registration will be required. Where automated self-service systems are available, holders of a biometric passport may not need to interact with a passport control officer.
During the phased rollout of the EES, member states are expected to reach a minimum registration of 10 percent within the first month, 35 percent within three months, and to be fully operational within six months. Additionally, during the first 60 days, they may operate without biometric functionality enabled. Passports will continue to be manually stamped until the end of the transition period.
Under exceptional circumstances (e.g., high traffic volumes), Member States may partially or fully suspend EES procedures at specific border crossings.
Passports will continue to be manually stamped until the end of the transition period.
What does this mean for business travelers to Europe?
The Entry/Exit System (EES) will subject business travellers to increased scrutiny through digital tracking. This may raise questions about the nature of their activities due to travel frequency, as well as highlight compliance risks with the Schengen allowance (90/180-day rule). Employers should prepare for these changes by reviewing their travel policies, enhancing systems for tracking business travel, and reinforcing employee education on travel compliance.
More broadly, travellers should anticipate potential delays during the EES transition phase. Once the EES is fully and successfully implemented, the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) is expected to follow, with a planned roll-out in Q4 2026. Both employers and travellers should stay informed as further details become available.
This news alert is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For case-specific guidance or further information, please contact Newland Chase directly.
