Major Shift in Border Control
The European Union will implement its Entry/Exit System (EES) on October 12, 2025, effectively redefining travel to the Schengen Zone. Consequently, carriers such as Emirates and Air Arabia have sent reminders to travelers to expect longer queues at border checks.
Overall, the EES effectively phases out traditional passport stamping, replacing it with digital biometric registration. Correspondingly, the system will automatically log travelers’ facial scans, fingerprints, and passport information at border points. Notably, this scheme marks the EU’s most ambitious border management undertaking in more than 20 years.
The European Commission notes that the EES will handle the data of around 265 million travelers per year.
What Is the EES?
Specifically, the EES will register the time, place, and duration of each traveler’s stay in the Schengen Area. In doing so, it replaces manual passport stamping with a centralized database accessible to border and migration authorities.
In addition, it applies to third-country nationals entering for short stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period. However, it does not apply to EU or Schengen citizens, nor to residents with long-stay visas or permits.
Furthermore, the data will be stored for up to three years and used to track overstays automatically. EU officials say the system will tighten border security and help identify illegal migration trends more efficiently.
Key Changes for Travelers
For first-time travelers under the new EES, border officers will capture both fingerprints and facial images. Meanwhile, later entries will require only facial recognition.
To clarify, travelers do not need to pre-register or complete online forms before arrival. Nevertheless, airlines recommend that passengers reach airports and border crossings earlier than usual, especially during the system’s first months. This is because of potentially longer wait times during the initial rollout phase.
Although passport stamps will gradually disappear, some countries may continue using them temporarily while adapting their infrastructure. Hence, this hybrid approach aims to prevent major congestion during the transition.
EES Readiness Across Europe
In particular, the rollout will begin simultaneously across all EU member countries, yet preparedness varies.
The Czech Republic, Estonia, and Luxembourg confirmed they are fully ready to implement the EES from day one. Specifically, Czech border authorities stated that all international airports and land crossings have completed system integration and staff training.
Meanwhile, Estonia will deploy the system at every air, sea, and land checkpoint. However, officials warned that early congestion is possible as passengers adjust.
Luxembourg also reported readiness, having tested biometric terminals at all its Schengen points. In contrast, several countries plan a gradual introduction, maintaining manual checks until systems are stable.
According to The Independent, this uneven readiness could lead to temporary differences in processing times across Europe.
Airlines Issue EES Advisories
Emirates and Air Arabia have begun notifying travelers through their official channels and booking systems. Both airlines recommend that passengers arrive at the airport earlier due to longer wait times.
“Please allow extra time for border checks, especially on your first trip after the system goes live,” Emirates urged in its travel advisory.
Additionally, airlines are also preparing ground staff to handle passenger questions and help travelers understand the new process. Despite this, industry experts predict short-term disruptions at major hubs like Paris Charles de Gaulle, Amsterdam Schiphol, and Frankfurt International.
Also, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) cautioned that “border processing times could temporarily double” in certain airports during the initial phase.
Nevertheless, the organization supports the EES as a “vital modernization step that will ultimately speed up travel and strengthen security.”
Benefits and Concerns
The European Commission argues that EES will simplify border procedures and enhance security for both visitors and residents. Over time, it should reduce fraudulent entry and prevent passport misuse.
However, privacy advocates have raised concerns about data protection. Notably, they urge stronger oversight on how biometric information is stored and shared across agencies.
Officials insist that all data will comply with the EU’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) standards. Furthermore, they emphasize that only authorized personnel can access traveler information.
EES Impact on Future Travel
The EES is also a prerequisite for the upcoming European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS). Starting in 2026, ETIAS will require travelers from visa-exempt countries—like the United States and the UAE—to obtain online pre-travel authorization before entering the Schengen Area.
Together, EES and ETIAS form the backbone of Europe’s “smart borders” strategy. Both aim to improve migration control and travel efficiency without compromising passenger privacy.
Still, many travelers remain unaware of these upcoming requirements. Hence, airlines and travel agencies are increasing their outreach to prevent confusion and last-minute disruptions.
Looking Ahead
Despite the expected teething issues, EU officials remain confident in the EES rollout. Notably, they predict smoother crossings once systems stabilize and travelers become familiar with the new process.
As of now, the best advice for passengers is simple: arrive early, stay informed, and remain patient.
Photo by valentin ciccarone on Unsplash
