Traveling to Europe will be different in 2025: everything you need to know about the EES and ETIAS—the guide every traveler needs before heading to Europe

Europe takes another step towards digital border control

Border checks when entering Europe have changed. In October 2025, the rollout began for the Entry/Exit System (EES), a new border control system that will replace traditional passport stamps with digital records based on biometrics.

Next comes ETIAS, an electronic authorization that will be mandatory after its launch and the applicable transition periods for travelers who currently don’t need a visa.

At TurTrip, we explain what’s changing, who it affects, and how to prepare for your next trip to Europe.

What is EES?

The Entry/Exit System (EES) is the new digital border control system launched by the European Union in 2025. Its purpose is to automatically record entries and exits for all non-EU travelers whenever they cross a Schengen border.

Instead of stamping your passport, the system will record your fingerprints, a facial photo, and the exact date you enter or leave. The information will be stored securely to make border checks faster, more accurate, and more secure.

Benefits of EES:

• No more manual passport stamps: the information will be recorded digitally.

• Automatic tracking of your stay: you’ll know how many days you can stay in Europe.

• Greater security and control: errors and the risk of fraudulent documentation are reduced.

• Smoother border crossings: thanks to automated kiosks and biometric verification.

Why was EES introduced?

The Entry/Exit System (EES) is part of the European Commission’s broader effort to modernize border controls and respond to growing international travel.

Main reasons and benefits: 

• Rapid detection of false identities: EES collects biometric data—fingerprints and a facial photo—from non-EU travelers to verify their identity.

• Tracking the length of your stay: the system automatically calculates the permitted stay in the Schengen Area, helping prevent overstays.

• Fewer stamps, less waiting, more efficiency: replacing passport stamps with digital records should make border crossings faster, although there may be an adjustment period.

• Strengthening European security: EES also supports border controls against fraud, organized crime, and irregular migration.

Who will EES affect?

The EES will apply to all travelers who are not EU citizens who cross a Schengen border by air, land, or sea.

Specifically, it will affect:

• Visa-exempt travelers, including travelers from the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, Japan, Australia, or New Zealand, among others.

• Travelers with short-stay visas, visiting Europe for tourism, business, or study.

However, EU citizens and citizens of Schengen-associated countries—Norway, Switzerland, Iceland and Liechtenstein— will not be subject to the system, as their entry and exit will continue to be handled as usual.

In short, if you don’t have a European passport, from 2025 your border crossing will involve digital and biometric checks.

What does this mean for your trip?

When you travel to Europe:

• You won’t need passport stamps to prove how long you’ve stayed: the system will record it automatically.

• At your first border crossing after the rollout, you’ll need to provide biometric data. Later crossings should be quicker.

• Although the aim is shorter waits, during the initial rollout there may be longer lines or additional checks, so allow extra time and make sure your documents are in order.

• If you travel often, the aim is fewer formalities and more time to enjoy your trip.

Which countries will use EES?

The system will cover 29 European countries in the Schengen Area, including its associated countries.

In practice, every airport or external border crossing in the Schengen Area will use the system.

How will EES work?

1. Initial data registration

The first time you cross an external border of a participating country, you’ll need to:

• Scan your valid passport or travel document.

• Have your facial photo and, where required, fingerprints taken.

• The system will automatically record when and where you enter or leave.

2. Faster crossings after registration

Once your details are registered, future crossings become simpler. You’ll identify yourself with your passport at a checkpoint, kiosk, or automated lane where your biometric data is already on file. The aim is less paperwork and shorter waits.

3. Automation, kiosks, and apps

Some countries will enable self-service kiosks and mobile systems to carry out part of the process beforehand or more efficiently at the border. This is part of the “smart borders” strategy that Europe is developing.

4. What data will be collected?

• The traveler’s full name, passport number, and the date and place of entry and exit.

• Facial image

• Fingerprints (normally 4) for those who do not require a visa or depending on the territory.

• The dates of your stay and automatic calculation of the permitted period of up to 90 days in any 180-day period.

5. Data security and responsible use

The digital system will be subject to EU data protection laws, with rules governing how information is stored and used. It is managed by eu-LISA.

What is ETIAS and how does it relate to EES?

The ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) is the new European travel authorization system for travelers from countries that are visa-exempt who want to enter the Schengen Area and associated countries.

It isn’t a visa, but it will be required before travel and will work alongside EES.

How are ETIAS and EES connected? 

• EES records your actual border crossings: when you enter, when you leave, and your biometric data.

• The ETIAS acts before the trip, checking your eligibility before you enter the Schengen Area. EES comes into play at the border crossing.

• Together they form a new model of “smart borders” in Europe: prevention + digital records + efficient checks.

How will ETIAS work?

• Travelers with visa-exempt nationalities will need to submit an online application before traveling.

• There will be an automated data check (criminal and immigration history, and public health risks) to assess the application.

• Once approved, your ETIAS authorization will be linked to your passport and remain valid for up to three years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.

Rollout timeline

Tips for travelers planning a trip to Europe

Traveling to Europe from 2025 will be different, but just as exciting. With EES and ETIAS, entering the Schengen Area will be more digital and secure—and, with a little preparation, smoother too.

Before you go:
✅ Check that your passport is valid.
✅ Check whether your nationality requires ETIAS before booking your flight.
✅ Apply online ahead of time, especially if you’re traveling in peak season.
✅ And, of course, stay connected with a TurTrip eSIM, so you can check your ETIAS status, read EES updates, or find your way around without relying on Wi-Fi.

Travel may be going digital, but the peace of mind that comes with staying connected is still very human. 🌎

TurTrip. Wherever you go, we stay connected.

Sources consulted: European Commission: Entry/Exit System; European Union: ETIAS; European Union: transition and grace periods. Updated September 29, 2026: EES is operational; ETIAS is not yet accepting applications. The exact ETIAS start date will be officially announced in advance.