Lisbon.
Starting 12 October 2025, the European Union will introduce the EES – Entry/Exit System, a new electronic system that will replace traditional passport stamps with a fully digital record.
The system applies to travelers from third countries (outside the EU or Schengen Area) who enter for tourism, business, or short visits (up to 90 days).
It does not apply to EU citizens or permanent residents in European territory.
The EES will automatically record:
– Entries and exits within the Schengen Area
– Date and place of border crossing
– Facial image and fingerprints
– Passport or travel document details
– Information on any entry refusals
On the first entry into the Schengen Area, travelers will undergo facial imaging, the collection of four fingerprints, and registration of passport data.
On subsequent trips, it will be sufficient to present the passport, provided it is the same document used during the initial registration.
With the introduction of this system, passport stamps will be eliminated, as the process becomes fully digital.
Additionally, there will be stricter monitoring of the length of stay, since the system automatically identifies travelers who exceed the 90-day limit.
