The EU’s long-delayed Entry/Exit System (EES) for non-EU nationals began its gradual rollout last October, and the introduction has not been entirely smooth.
The new biometric border checks have already caused delays at airports, ferry ports and Channel crossings, leaving many travellers unsure what to expect. A survey carried out last year by Holiday Extras found that 82% of respondents did not fully understand how the EES would affect their trips, while more than a third were unaware that further changes are coming into force this weekend.
Almost one in five holidaymakers said they had already changed or cancelled travel plans, largely due to concerns about border delays.
If you are travelling to the EU in the coming months, here’s what you need to know.
Will EES be in place everywhere this summer?
The EES is designed to strengthen border security and track how long non-EU travellers stay in the Schengen Area, where visits are limited to 90 days in any 180-day period.
To operate the system, border crossings need dedicated equipment, including biometric kiosks. Installing this infrastructure has proved challenging, which is why the rollout is being staggered.
Many airports now have EES facilities in place. Where this applies, visa-free travellers from the UK, US and other non-EU countries must register biometric data, including facial scans and fingerprints, at self-service kiosks.
Initially, EU member states were required to process just 10% of eligible arrivals using the new system. That threshold rose to 35% on 9 January 2026. Full implementation across all EU external borders is scheduled for April 2026.
Until then, some travellers will still receive traditional passport stamps rather than being processed through EES.
What does EES mean for travellers?
Where the system is active, non-EU travellers will need to scan their passport at a self-service kiosk. The system records personal details, fingerprints, facial images and the date and place of entry and exit.
Biometric data collected during the first registration is stored for three years. During that time, travellers will usually only need to provide a fingerprint or facial scan at the border.
The EES does not apply to EU citizens, residents or holders of long-stay visas.
Will border delays continue?
Early experience suggests delays are likely during the transition period. Some passengers have reported long queues and missed flights as people adjust to the new process.
According to a report by Airport Council International Europe, border processing times at airports have increased by up to 70% during the phased rollout, with waits of up to three hours during peak periods.
In December, Lisbon Airport temporarily suspended EES checks after waiting times reportedly reached as long as seven hours.
What comes next: ETIAS
The EES will be followed by the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), expected to launch in late 2026. A transition period of at least six months means it will not be compulsory until 2027.
ETIAS will require visa-free non-EU travellers to apply online before travelling to the Schengen Area. The application will involve personal and security questions and a €20 fee. The authorisation will be valid for three years or until the passport expires.
Children under 18 and adults over 70 will be exempt from the fee, but will still need to apply.
