Following a series of delays, the European Commission has set 12 October 2025 as the launch date for the rollout of the EU’s Entry/Exit System (EES) – a system that will digitally record the entries and exits of non-EU nationals travelling to 29 European countries for short stays. It will capture biometric data, such as fingerprints, facial image, and other travel information, gradually replacing the current system of passport stamping.
Intended to modernise and improve the management of EU external borders, the system promises to provide reliable data on border crossings and detect overstayers, as well as cases of document and identity fraud, which legislators say will reduce irregular migration and protect the security of European citizens.
The increase of automated border checks, officials said in a press release, will mean “smoother and safer” travel, relying on “the highest standards of data and privacy protection, ensuring that travellers’ personal data remain protected and secure.”
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 ↓
From 12 October onwards, Member States will start introducing the EES gradually over a period of six months. Border authorities will progressively register the data of third country nationals crossing the borders. At the end of a six-month period, the EES will be “fully deployed at all border crossing points.”
The “gradual start of EES” is supposed to allow Member States to start benefitting from the new system, whilst ensuring that border authorities, the transport industry and affected travellers have time to adjust to the new procedures.
The EES is part of the EU’s Smart Borders package, alongside the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), and an extended and “more harmonised” use of the Automated Border Control (ABC) systems utilised by the Member States.
Henna Virkkunen, Executive Vice-President for Tech Sovereignty, Security and Democracy, said in a statement: “The launch of the Entry/Exit System on 12 October 2025, sets up a step closer in making the EU the most advanced travel destination in the world. By working closely with Member States and the transport sector, we are creating a secure, efficient, and travel-friendly framework that reflects Europe’s commitment to both security and technological innovation.”
The Entry/Exit System is a key part of improving how we manage our external borders. It will help us track who is entering and leaving the EU.
— Magnus Brunner (@magnusbrunner) July 30, 2025
This will strengthen security in the Schengen Area by helping us identify overstayers, prevent irregular movements, and reduce document… https://t.co/qTihpzF3VG
Describing the EES as “a key part of how we manage our external borders”, Magnus Brunner, Commissioner for Internal Affairs and Migration, said, “it will help us track who is entering and leaving the EU. This will strengthen security in the Schengen Area by helping us identify overstayers, prevent irregular movements, and reduce document and identity fraud. With a six-month rollout, Member States, travellers, and businesses will have the time to adjust to the new system.”
