Travel to Europe is set to change from April 10, 2026, as the European Union rolls out its fully digital Entry/Exit System (EES) across 29 countries.

The system will replace passport stamping with biometric registration for non-EU travellers, with authorities warning of longer wait times at airports during the initial phase.Digital border checks replace passport stampsUnder the new system, travellers entering the EU for short stays of up to 90 days will have their entries and exits recorded digitally. The system will capture biometric data, including facial images and fingerprints, along with passport details.

The EES applies to all non-EU and non-Schengen nationals, including visa-free travellers and those visiting for tourism or business. However, Ireland and Cyprus will continue manual checks and are not part of the system.EU officials said the move aims to modernise border controls, improve security, and reduce fraud. Since its phased rollout began in October last year, more than 24,000 travellers have already been refused entry for reasons such as invalid documents or failure to justify their visit. Over 600 individuals have been flagged as security risks.

Europe’s border control is undergoing a significant digital transformation with the full rollout of the Entry/Exit System (EES) on April 10, 2026. This system will replace passport stamping with biometric data collection for non-EU travelers, aiming to enhance security and efficiency. Authorities anticipate longer wait times initially as the system is implemented across 29 countries.
By ET Online
Apr 08, 2026, 04:48:00 PM IST
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Travel to Europe is set to change from April 10, 2026, as the European Union rolls out its fully digital Entry/Exit System (EES) across 29 countries. The system will replace passport stamping with biometric registration for non-EU travellers, with authorities warning of longer wait times at airports during the initial phase.

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Digital border checks replace passport stamps
Under the new system, travellers entering the EU for short stays of up to 90 days will have their entries and exits recorded digitally. The system will capture biometric data, including facial images and fingerprints, along with passport details.

The EES applies to all non-EU and non-Schengen nationals, including visa-free travellers and those visiting for tourism or business. However, Ireland and Cyprus will continue manual checks and are not part of the system.

EU officials said the move aims to modernise border controls, improve security, and reduce fraud. Since its phased rollout began in October last year, more than 24,000 travellers have already been refused entry for reasons such as invalid documents or failure to justify their visit. Over 600 individuals have been flagged as security risks.

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How the system works
Travellers do not need to register in advance, as biometric data will be collected at the border. Those with biometric passports can use self-service kiosks for faster processing, while others will need to complete checks at staffed counters.

Children under 12 will not need to provide fingerprints but must still have their photographs taken. Travellers who refuse to provide biometric data will be denied entry