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 United States travelers (and anyone else who is not an EU citizen) 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 US 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.)

It Will Take Longer to Connect in Europe, For Now

Although designed in part to improve efficiency, this system is currently slowing down entry into Europe because there are now more steps than there used to be. At some airports the delays are significant. Upon arrival in Europe, in addition to going through passport control, you now also have to get your fingerprints and facial images screened. This is often being handled at a separate checkpoint with long lines. Waits are long because many travelers have not used the system before and many airports don't have automated systems or sufficient staff to handle the situation.

This matters the most when you connect at any airport in the EU because there is now this additional screening step that takes more time. This is important because you need to make sure you have enough time to connect.

So, my advice is, make sure to have at least two hours to connect at any airport that is located in the EU. Some busy or larger airports will require more time. If you are my client, I will advise you on how much time you need.

How It Works

• US 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 face scan, not fingerprints.​

  
  

• Refusal to provide biometric data will result 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 automatically calculates the permitted duration of stay and applies penalties for overstays.​

• Full implementation was completed April 10, 2026.

More Information

If you are a current or past client of mine, feel free to contact me for more information. I make sure all 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, Updated June 2026

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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.

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