If you are planning to travel to Europe soon, it is important to be aware of the new border policy for Schengen countries in Europe.
Americans and other non-European travelers will be required to provide biometric data, including a digital photo and fingerprinting, when entering into the Schengen area beginning on November 10, 2024, with the launch of the European Union’s new Entry/Exit System (EES).
What Is the Entry/Exit System (EES)?
The new Entry/Exit System (EES) that is being launched by the European Union is a border reformation effort that will attempt to strengthen border security and closely keep track of how long visitors are staying within the Schengen area.
The EES is a biotmetic system that uses a traveler’s digital photograph, personal information, and fingerprints to monitor a visitor’s length of stay and border movements.
The EES biometics process will replace passport stamping upon arrival as you enter the Schengen area.
Who Needs to Register Through the EU Entry/Exit System?
Most non-EU nationals who are traveling for a short stay within the 29 Schengen countries will need to give biometrics data when arriving through the EES.
There are some very specific exceptions for certain individuals from certain countries, residence status, or travel purposes that may not need to register through EES.
What Data Does the EES Collect?
The EES collects personal data, fingerprints, and records your exits, entries, and refusals across any European borders utilizing this system.
Expect to provide the following data:
- The information on your travel documents (name, DOB, etc.)
- Date and place of each entry/exit in the Schengen area
- Facial image and fingerprints (biometrics data)
- If you were refused entry
Refusing to provide your biometric information will result in being denied entry into the Schengen area.
Which EU Countries Require EES Biometrics?
All 29 of the European countries in the Schengen agreement will require EES upon arrival.
The EES requirement does not apply to Cyprus and Ireland.
Do You Have to Provide Biometrics for Every Trip?
No, you only have to provide your biometrics data when you first arrive in Europe and are using the EES for the first time.
After you are registered in the EES, your data will be registered for three years, or when your passport expires, whichever comes first. After the three years or expiration of your passport, you can re-register upon arrival again.
How Does the EES Work?
The EES will be used almost like a virtual passport stamp. When you enter into the Schengen area, cross borders within Europe, or leave Europe, the EES will track your movement.
You can actually use the EES to check on how long you have stayed in the EU area, either online or through the equipment installed at some border crossing points.
Additionally, first timers can make the biometrics process quicker by registering some of their data in advance by using the self-service equipment at your border crossing point or via mobile application, if available.
Is EES Different From ETIAS?
If you’re familiar with traveling to Europe, you have likely heard of the upcoming ETIAS requirement, which is an electronic travel authorization that will be required for travelers into Europe.
The ETIAS is different from EES, and will be launching separately in the first half of 2025.
The ETIAS will require nationals from over 60 visa-exempt countries to have travel authorization prior to entry into 30 European countries for short stays.
The ETIAS is linked to your passport, and is also valid for up to three years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.
This means that once ETIAS is live, travelers will need to apply for both ETIAS and EES every three years or when they renew their passport in order to travel to Europe.
TIP: Learn more about ETIAS and its requirements.
Do You Need to Register Through EES If You Have a Schengen Visa?
Yes, even travelers who hold a Schengen visa in order to travel to Europe will still have to go through the EES biometrics process when arriving in Europe.
Be Prepared for Your Trip to Europe
While this new process may take more time for travelers upon arrival, the system will eventually help border movement and control to keep Europe and travelers safe and accounted for.
Before your embark on your journey to Europe, here are some trips to help prepare for your visit:
- Make sure you carry all important requirement documents that you will need for entry, including travel documents and a visa if required.
- If you need a Schengen visa to travel to Europe, apply well ahead of your scheduled trip to account for any issues with your application and processing times.
- Don’t forget to secure your trip with travel insurance, which can provide protection for emergency medical treatment, border entry protection, and meet Schengen visa requirements.
- Also consider carrying other supporting documents with you to present at the border for entry such as proof of sufficient funds, return ticket information, accommodation bookings, and travel insurance proof.
Don’t travel to Europe unprotected! Have questions about travel insurance? Discover more about the importance of travel insurance through our Knowledge Center or reach out to our Customer Success Team for further assistance.
