Starting April 10, 2026, Europe will roll out its Entry-Exit System (EES), replacing traditional passport stamps with digital biometric tracking for non-EU travelers across 29 countries.
The system, first launched in October 2025, aims to bolster border security, detect identity fraud, and monitor irregular migration throughout the Schengen area.
Europe’s new digital border system collects biometric data, including facial images and fingerprints, alongside personal information from travel documents at all entry and exit points for non-EU nationals. According to the European Commission, since its pilot launch, the system has already flagged over 4,000 overstays and denied entry to more than 24,000 travelers due to invalid documents, insufficient justification, or security concerns.
Delays at Airports Expected
Airport operators are warning that the new checks could add up to two hours or more to waiting times during peak periods, especially in view of Easter.
At the same time, industry stakeholders, including ACI Europe and Airlines for Europe are calling for operational flexibility, proposing the temporary suspension of EES during peak travel to prevent delays.
In the meantime, travelers are advised to allow at least 30 extra minutes for immigration procedures.
Mandatory for Non-EU Travelers
As of April 10, EES will be mandatory at all EU airports as well as international rail and road checkpoints for non-EU and non-EFTA nationals. EU citizens are expected to be less affected as e-gates will be repurposed to handle EU traffic once third-country passenger flows stabilize.
Airlines are required to submit Advance Passenger Information that matches EES records or face fines and potential boarding denials.
Each biometric registration is valid for three years, and processing speeds increase after a traveler’s fourth trip.
The EES rollout sets the stage for ETIAS, the 7-euro electronic travel authorization expected to launch later this year.
