Europe’s borders go digital

Launched on 12 October 2025, the new Entry/Exit System (EES) has already registered over 300 000 movements

The Entry/Exit System (EES) is the new IT system that digitally records the entry and exit of non-EU nationals travelling to 29 European countries* for short stays. The system has already recorded over 300 000 movements, with the number continuing to grow daily. The EES began implementation on 12 October 2025 and will be fully operational by 10 April 2026.

The EES is one of the world’s most modern border management systems, developed and managed by eu-LISA – the European Union Agency for the Operational Management of Large-Scale IT Systems in the Area of Freedom, Security and Justice. By collecting passport data, along with the dates and places of entry into and exit from European countries, as well as biometric data (facial images and fingerprints) and any refusals of entry, border checks will become faster and more efficient. The collection of biometric data will also improve the accuracy of identity verification. In addition, the new system will also help identify visa overstayers and prevent identity fraud.

As a result, the EES will support the identification of terrorists, criminals, suspects, and victims of crimes, by enabling authorities to cross-check information more effectively and trace individuals involved in criminal activities. It will therefore help law enforcement prevent, detect, and investigate serious crimes more efficiently, increasing security within the Schengen area, and strengthening the protection of European citizens.

https://www.europol.europa.eu/media-press/newsroom/news/europe%E2%80%99s-borders-go-digital