🇪🇺 Europe launches the new EES Entry Exit System

Written by Volare | June 18, 2026

The borders of the Schengen area are definitively modernized. The EU Entry/Exit System (EES), which began its gradual implementation on October 12 of last year, is fully operational as of April 10, 2026. With this measure, the traditional manual stamping of passports of non-EU travelers is completely eliminated. This old practice is now replaced by an advanced digital and biometric record, where visitors will use automated self-service kiosks designed to optimize immigration control throughout the region.

Digitization and monitoring of the stay

Upon crossing the external border of the EU, the new EES system securely captures and stores the traveler's biometric data (facial scans and fingerprints) along with the detailed information of their travel document. This technology automatically tracks all entries, exits, and entry refusals, accurately calculating the length of stay of each individual.

For visitors, this means strict and automated monitoring of compliance with the short-stay rule (the 90-day limit within any 180-day period), as well as the precise validation of the validity for those holding long-stay national visas or residence permits. Understanding how these new border technologies work will prevent you from involuntarily overstaying and committing immigration infractions. Complying with the protocols of this organizational planning will ensure a smooth transition towards obtaining temporary residence, allowing you to materialize your insertion into the dynamic seasonal labor market and plan your participation in the diverse short-term academic offer of the chosen region.

Agility, wait times, and mobile application

The implementation of this biometric registry not only aims to reinforce regional security, combat identity fraud, and prevent irregular immigration, but it also transforms traveler logistics. Although automating data collection through kiosks seeks to speed up transit, during the first months of full operation it is feasible to experience longer wait times at border controls. For this reason, it is recommended to arrive at airports an hour and a half to two hours in advance.

For young participants of exchange and mobility programs, what you should know facing these changes is that there is the option to use the official mobile application "Travel to Europe". This tool allows you to pre-register your passport data and biometric photographs 72 hours before arrival to speed up customs controls. Starting your European adventure with total legal certainty will allow you to focus from the very first moment on your settlement, the search for accommodation, and your cultural immersion, successfully overcoming the new airport regulations.