New Border Control System for European Travel

In October 2025, the European Union started implementing a new border control system called the Entry/Exit System (EES). This requires all non-EU travelers entering or leaving the "Schengen Area" to provide biometric data, including facial images and fingerprints.

The Schengen Area is comprised of 29 European countries and includes many of the most popular countries in Europe visited by U.S. travelers: Italy, France, Germany, Croatia, Greece, Spain, Portugal, The Netherlands and more (full list here). It does not include England, Scotland, Ireland or Northern Ireland.

The EES is part of digital modernization to replace manual passport stamping, enhance border security, and improve travel efficiency.​ (This change is separate from the new entry requirements known as ETIA and ETIAS. For more information about those see here.)

How it Works

• U.S. travelers must now provide biometric data (face scan and fingerprints) when crossing Schengen borders for short stays (up to 90 days in a 180-day period).​

  
  

• Passport details and entry/exit records are now digitally stored, replacing manual passport stamps.​

• Biometric registration takes place on the first entry. On subsequent visits, fast verification is done using the stored data.

• Children under 12 are generally only required to provide a facial image, not fingerprints.​

  
  

• Refusal to provide biometric data results in denied entry.​

• Data is stored for three years after the last entry/exit (and five years for overstays) and used across Schengen countries to monitor compliance. The system can also automatically calculate the permitted duration of stay and apply penalties for overstays.​

• Full implementation will be completed by April 10, 2026. For now, EES is being rolled out gradually at border points, with variations based on country and border location readiness.​

More Information

If you are a current or past client of mine, feel free to contact me for more information! I make sure all of my clients are up-to-date on the information they need to travel. Further information can be found at the official European Commission EES website.

—Daria Dimitroff, December 2025

---

Contact me to customize your next trip. My specialities are bespoke luxury vacations, group trips, and exclusive cruise experiences.

Booking through me is better than reserving on your own because I’m an expert. I do this every day and have local contacts all over the world. I provide a stress-free experience and give you personalized advice. I get you a better value, including perks. I have clout and connections. I customize your trip, and I’m a real human who delivers exceptional service, saves you time and takes care of you before, during, and after your journey.

You can reach me at daria@journeysofalifetime.biz or 415-939-5773 or schedule a call here.​