The European Union confirmed on Wednesday that its long-postponed new border control system for non-EU nationals, which will eliminate the need for passport stamps, is now set to launch in October.
Originally scheduled to go live in November last year, the Entry/Exit System (EES) was delayed after several EU countries indicated they weren’t ready for its implementation. ALSO READ: Phased launch of EU’s Entry/Exit System (EES) approved by MEPs.
Designed to log the dates of entry and departure for non-EU visitors, the EES will also monitor those who overstay their permitted time or are denied entry.
The system will collect travellers’ biometric data, including facial scans and fingerprints, along with other personal details.
Its arrival has prompted concerns over potential delays and longer queues at European borders for those travelling by plane, train or ferry.
In March, EU member states agreed on a gradual introduction of the system, and the European Commission confirmed on Wednesday that this phased launch will start on 12 October.
‘This will strengthen security … by helping us identify overstayers, prevent irregular movements, and reduce document and identity fraud,’ said Magnus Brunner, the commissioner for migration.
First agreed upon in 2017, the EES will be implemented across all 27 EU member states except for Ireland and Cyprus.
It will also apply in Norway, Iceland, Switzerland and Liechtenstein – non-EU countries that participate in the Schengen zone.
According to the EU Commission, travellers will be informed in advance through awareness campaigns at airports and other border points throughout the EU ahead of the rollout.
‘With a six-month rollout, member states, travellers and businesses will have the time to adjust to the new system,’ Brunner said.
The phased deployment will see member states operating the system at approximately half of their border checkpoints within three months, with full implementation expected after six months.
‘EES may take each passenger a few extra minutes to complete so be prepared to wait longer than usual at the border once the system starts,’ Britain’s Foreign Office noted in a travel advisory. ALSO READ: EU’s Entry/Exit System will not recognise Spain’s green residency certificate.
ALSO READ: British Embassy yet again urges residents to get a TIE card – ‘especially those in Alicante and Malaga’.
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On 12 October 2025, @EU_Commission will launch the Entry/Exit System.#EES will gradually record entries and exits of non-EU nationals in 29 European countries, capturing fingerprints, facial images & travel data.
— EU Home Affairs (@EUHomeAffairs) July 30, 2025
It will be fully operational in 6 months. Read more ↓
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