Europe's EES Launching in Phases by April 2026

Published Date : 7/28/2025 

The European Union's Entry-Exit System (EES) is set to begin its phased rollout on October 12, 2023, with full operational status expected by April 10, 2026. The system will require biometric data from third-country travelers, including fingerprints and facial images, with exceptions for children under 12. 

The long-awaited Entry-Exit System (EES) in Europe is expected to start its phased rollout on October 12th, 2023, and will be fully operational by April 10th, 2026. This system is designed to enhance border security and streamline the entry and exit processes for third-country travelers.

Third-country travelers entering the European Union will be required to submit four fingerprints and a facial image. However, children under the age of 12 are exempt from providing fingerprints, according to information published by EU-Lisa, the European agency responsible for large-scale IT systems.

In addition to the EES, the European electronic travel authorization system, known as ETIAS, will be implemented in the last quarter of 2026. The EU has announced a price increase for the three-year travel permit to 20 euros (US$23.30), which is nearly three times the original 7 euros ($8.15) price. Certain groups, including applicants under 18 or over 70 years of age, family members of EU citizens, and family members of non-EU nationals with a right to move freely within the EU, are exempt from this payment.

Following an agreement earlier this year, the European Parliament approved the progressive start schedule for EES on July 8th, with the European Council formally adopting the law two weeks later. According to the new rules, member states can implement the EES gradually over a period of 180 days. By the end of this six-month period, all EU countries should have completed the full registration, including the collection of biometric data, of all individuals in the EES.

During the transition period, border authorities will continue to manually stamp travel documents. Member states are also permitted to fully or partially suspend the EES in exceptional circumstances, such as when high waiting times are observed.

The EU border agency Frontex has launched a “Travel to Europe” app, which allows passengers to scan their passports and take a selfie at home to expedite border queues. France has yet to confirm whether the app will be implemented at its borders, including at UK checkpoints such as London’s St Pancras railway station, Port of Dover, and Folkestone, according to Connexion France. Meanwhile, some UK industry groups are already lobbying for EES exceptions.

RHA, the UK’s largest trade association for HGV (Heavy Goods Vehicle), LGV (Large Goods Vehicle), and coach, has expressed concerns that the EES will have a “profound impact” on the country’s coach, haulage, and live events logistics businesses. The organization has called for an exception for professional drivers and visa-free arrangements for people working in sectors that rely on frequent, short-term movement across the EU.

The implementation of the EES and ETIAS represents a significant step forward in the EU's efforts to enhance border security and streamline travel processes. These systems aim to provide a more secure and efficient travel experience for all travelers entering and exiting the European Union. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS): 

Q: When will the Entry-Exit System (EES) be fully operational?

A: The Entry-Exit System (EES) is expected to be fully operational by April 10th, 2026.

Q: What biometric data will be required for third-country travelers?

A: Third-country travelers will be required to submit four fingerprints and a facial image. Children under the age of 12 are exempt from providing fingerprints.

Q: What is the price of the three-year travel permit under ETIAS?

A: The price for the three-year travel permit under ETIAS is 20 euros (US$23.30).

Q: Which groups are exempt from the payment for the travel permit?

A: Applicants under 18 or over 70 years of age, family members of EU citizens, and family members of non-EU nationals with a right to move freely within the EU are exempt from the payment.

Q: What is the purpose of the 'Travel to Europe' app?

A: The 'Travel to Europe' app is designed to allow passengers to scan their passports and take a selfie at home to expedite border queues. 

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