29 European countries are introducing a new Entry/Exit System (EES) at their external borders, that will be fully operational from April 10, 2026.
The EES shortens waiting times at borders, easily identifies third-country nationals who do not meet the entry and residence conditions or who remain in the Schengen area longer than the authorized period, and strengthens the security of European borders.
The EES does not apply to citizens of Cyprus and Ireland, third-country nationals with a residence permit and a close family relationship with an EU citizen, citizens traveling for work, research, or study purposes, or who hold laissez-passer or special permits.
To learn more about the EES system, visit https://travel-europe.europa.eu
or watch the European Union video: