What is the Entry/Exit System (EES)?

The EES is an automated IT system designed to register non-EU nationals travelling for short stays (up to 90 days within a 180-day period) to the 29 European countries that form part of the Schengen Area.

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Each time a traveller crosses an external Schengen border, the system will record:

• The traveller’s name and travel document information,
• Biometric data, including fingerprints and a facial image, and
• The date and place of entry and exit.

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The system will also log refusals of entry and automatically calculate the permitted length of stay, helping authorities to detect and prevent overstays.

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When Will EES Be Implemented?

The EES will be introduced progressively from 12 October 2025, with all 29 participating countries expected to be fully operational within six months.

The system is set to replace passport stamping entirely by 10 April 2026, creating a uniform, digital border management process across Europe.

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Why Is the EES Being Introduced?

The EES is part of the EU’s broader Security Union and European Agenda on Migration, which aim to modernise border management, enhance security, and streamline legitimate travel.

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How Will It Affect Travellers and Employers?

For travellers, the main change is the replacement of passport stamps with an electronic record of entry and exit.

• First-time entrants may experience slightly longer processing times as biometric data (fingerprints and a photo) will need to be captured.
• Subsequent trips should be faster and more efficient, especially when using automated border gates or self-service kiosks.

For employers and mobility managers, the EES will provide:

• Greater visibility of employees’ travel histories across Schengen countries,
• Easier tracking of short-term business travel limits, and
• Reduced risk of inadvertent overstays, which can have immigration or compliance implications.

What Should Companies Do Now?

Organisations with frequent business travellers to Europe should:

• Review employee travel patterns to ensure compliance with Schengen stay limits (90/180-day rule),
• Update internal mobility and travel-tracking systems,
• Communicate EES procedures to employees who are non-EU nationals, and
• Coordinate with immigration advisers for tailored compliance planning.

Contact and Disclaimer

Should you have any questions regarding the above information, or require assistance with your immigration or global mobility matters, please don’t hesitate to contact our legal team at Hudson McKenzie. You can reach us by email at gccinfo@hudsonmckenzie.com or by telephone at +44 (0) 20 3318 5794.

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For office locations, please visit our Our Offices page.

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The information provided in this blog is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice.