What You Need to Know About the EU's New Entry/Exit System (EES)

Traveling to and from Europe is about to change, and if you’re planning a trip soon, you’ll want to be prepared. The European Union’s new Entry/Exit System (EES) is rolling out, aiming to modernize border management across the Schengen Area. But what does this mean for you, the traveler? Let’s break it down so you can breeze through your next European adventure without a hitch.

What is EES?

The Entry/Exit System (EES) is a new electronic system being introduced by the EU to monitor and control the entry and exit of non-EU citizens. In essence, it’s an upgrade from the traditional passport stamp system, where your arrival and departure were marked manually. Instead, EES will record your details digitally, including biometric data like fingerprints and facial scans.

The idea is simple: better manage the flow of travelers, reduce wait times at borders, and strengthen security across Europe.

When Will EES Start?

If you’ve been keeping an eye on travel news, you might have heard of a few delays, but the system is expected to launch soon. Planning on travelling to the EU after 10th November? Keep an eye on the official EU announcements and plan accordingly, especially if you’re traveling later this year or early next year.

What Countries Are Affected?

The EES system will be implemented across all Schengen Area countries. This includes popular destinations like France, Italy, Spain, and Germany, but also extends to smaller countries such as Estonia, Slovenia, and Malta. If you’re traveling to any country within the Schengen Zone, expect to go through the EES process.

Countries outside the Schengen Area, like the UK and Ireland, will not be part of this system, so their entry requirements remain unchanged.

Here’s the full list:

Austria	Belgium	Bulgaria
Czech Republic	Croatia	Denmark
Estonia	Finland	France
Germany	Greece	Hungary
Iceland	Italy	Latvia
Liechtenstein	Lithuania	Luxembourg
Malta	Netherlands	Norway
Poland	Portugal	Romania
Slovakia	Slovenia	Spain
Sweden	Switzerland

What Do I Need to Do?

If you’re a non-EU traveler, including citizens from the US, Canada, or Australia, you’ll be required to go through EES when entering or exiting any Schengen Area country. This means that instead of just getting your passport stamped, you’ll need to provide biometric data like your fingerprints and a facial scan.

Don’t worry; the process is expected to be quick and straightforward, much like current airport security screenings. Still, it’s wise to factor in a few extra minutes at border control when planning your trip.

Potential Disruptions

As with any new system, especially one on this scale, there might be some teething problems. While the EU is working hard to ensure a smooth rollout, delays at the border could happen, particularly during peak travel periods like summer holidays or Christmas. But as the system becomes more familiar, these issues should decrease.

What’s EES For?

EES is primarily about improving border security and making travel smoother for legitimate travelers. By keeping better records of who is entering and exiting the Schengen Area, authorities hope to crack down on illegal overstays and strengthen the security of the region. For travelers, it could mean faster processing at borders once the system is fully operational.

How to Avoid EES Delays

We all know the importance of arriving early at the airport, and with EES in place, that rule is more important than ever. To avoid getting caught up in long queues, here are a few tips:

1. Prepare Your Documents: Make sure your passport is up-to-date and valid for at least six months after your planned return date.
2. Know the Process: Familiarize yourself with EES ahead of time so you know what to expect.
3. Travel Off-Peak: If possible, try to schedule your trips outside of the busiest travel periods.
4. Use Fast-Track Lanes: Some airports may offer fast-track services for travelers. Check if this option is available when booking your trip.

What’s ETIAS?

While we’re on the topic of new travel systems, it’s worth mentioning the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS). Unlike EES, which records entries and exits, ETIAS is a pre-travel authorization requirement for non-EU travelers visiting the Schengen Area. Think of it as a mini visa, but for short stays. ETIAS is set to launch shortly after EES, so if you’re planning to visit Europe in the future, make sure to apply online before your trip.

Final Tips to Avoid EES Delays

• Arrive Early: Give yourself extra time at the airport or border crossing, especially during busy seasons.
• Stay Informed: Follow the latest updates on EES and ETIAS from reliable sources, such as the European Commission’s website.
• Be Patient: While the EES system is designed to be efficient, there might be a learning curve for both travelers and border control officers. A little patience goes a long way.

In Conclusion

The introduction of EES marks a significant shift in how the EU handles its borders. While it might seem daunting at first, this new system is designed to make travel safer and more efficient for everyone. With a little preparation and an understanding of how the process works, you can avoid disruptions and enjoy your European trip with ease.

Traveling is always an adventure, and with the right knowledge, even the changes in border control won’t slow you down. So, pack your bags and get ready for the next chapter of European travel!