Europe’s New Fingerprinting Rules: What Travelers Need to Know About the Entry/Exit System

If you’re planning a trip to Europe in late 2025 or beyond, there’s an important change you should be aware of. The European Union is rolling out its new Entry/Exit System (EES), which will replace traditional passport stamping at the external borders of the Schengen Zone. For millions of travelers, this means biometric checks—specifically fingerprints and a facial photo—will soon become part of the arrival process.

What Is the Entry/Exit System (EES)?

The Entry/Exit System is a high-tech border management program designed to streamline travel, enhance security, and modernize record-keeping. Instead of border agents stamping passports, the EES will digitally record:

• Your travel document details

• The date and location of entry or exit

• A biometric profile that includes a facial photo and, in most cases, fingerprints

This system will help monitor travel across the Schengen Zone more efficiently, reduce overstays, and speed up repeat entries once travelers are enrolled.

Who Does It Affect?

The new fingerprinting and photo requirements apply to non-EU, non-Schengen nationals, which includes travelers from the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and many other countries.

European Union citizens and Schengen residents will not be required to register under the new system.

What Travelers Can Expect at the Border

• First-time enrollment: On your first trip after EES goes live, you’ll be asked to provide fingerprints and have your photo taken. This will take place at automated kiosks or directly with a border agent.

• Future visits: Once your data is in the system, subsequent border crossings should be faster since your biometric record will already be stored.

• Children: Travelers under the age of 12 are generally exempt from fingerprinting, though a facial photo may still be required.

• Data retention: Your biometric data will remain securely stored for a limited period, so you won’t need to re-enroll at every trip.

When Does It Start?

The rollout of the Entry/Exit System begins on October 12, 2025, with full implementation expected over the following months into 2026. This means that depending on your travel date and point of entry, you may encounter the system sooner or later.

How to Prepare for Your Trip

• Arrive early: If you’re traveling through a busy airport, train station, or ferry port, allow extra time for border checks—especially if it’s your first trip under EES.

• Check your passport: Make sure it is valid for the entire duration of your stay and linked to your EES record.

• Stay informed: Different entry points will phase in the technology at different times, so check official travel sites and your airline before departure.

• Remember ETIAS: In addition to EES, many travelers will also need to apply for ETIAS, a new online travel authorization that is separate from fingerprinting requirements.

The Bottom Line

The introduction of fingerprinting and facial recognition at Europe’s borders marks a major shift in the way international travelers experience arrivals. While it may mean longer wait times at first, the system is designed to improve efficiency in the long run and create a smoother travel experience once you’re registered.

For those dreaming of a European getaway in 2025 or 2026, a little preparation goes a long way. Factor in the new rules, allow some extra time at the border, and you’ll be ready to enjoy everything Europe has to offer without surprises.