Launch of the EU Entry/Exit System (EES) – October 12, 2025
To enhance the quality of border controls and streamline border-crossing procedures, the Entry/Exit System (EES) will be launched on October 12, 2025. From that date, the 29 European countries using the EES will begin rolling out the system at their external borders over a six-month transition period.
During this rollout phase, data collection may not occur at all border points immediately. However, by April 10, 2026, the EES will be fully operational at all external border crossing points.
The EES is an automated system for registering third-country nationals entering the EU for short stays, whether they hold a short-stay visa or are visa-exempt. At each border crossing—regardless of travel purpose—the system will record:
Alphanumeric personal data
Travel document details
Biometric data (fingerprints and facial images)
Date and place of entry or exit
The EES will support greater use of automated checks and self-service kiosks, ultimately resulting in faster and more convenient border crossings. However, during the initial months after launch, longer processing times may occur at both entry and exit points.
Initial registration, including biometric data collection, will be conducted under the supervision of border control officers. Travellers should anticipate changes in border procedures and possible delays. At international airports in the Czech Republic, trained staff will be available to assist travellers during this period.
Once registered, travellers will not need to repeat the biometric process for five years. During subsequent visits, previously recorded data will simply be verified—making future border crossings faster.