Entry/Exit System (EES)

Travelling to Europe

Entry/Exit System (EES)

The Entry/Exit System (EES) is a digital border management system that has been operational since October 12. It stores data of short-term travelers from third countries who visit a Schengen area country. Each time they cross the external border of one of these countries, they are registered in the system. Third-country nationals are travelers who do not hold the nationality of a European Union country, nor that of Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, or Switzerland.

Ein Spielzeugflugzeug steht auf einer stilisierten Europakarte mit gelben EU-Sternen. In der Mitte ist der Schriftzug ‚EES Entry/Exit System‘ zu sehen, daneben ein kleiner EU-Flaggenpin.

EES FAQ

What ist the Entry/Exit System?

The Entry/Exit System (EES) is a new EU-wide system that automatically records when non-EU nationals enter and leave the Schengen area. It replaces manual passport stamping and helps monitor the permitted duration of short stays, ensuring compliance with entry and exit regulations.

To whom does the EES apply?

The EES applies to non-EU nationals entering the Schengen area for short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period, provided they do not hold a residence permit or a long-stay visa.

Who is not subject to EES registration?

The EES does not apply to EU citizens or citizens of Schengen-associated countries (Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, Liechtenstein). It also does not apply to their non-EU family members who hold residence cards, or to travelers with residence permits or national long-stay visas issued by a Schengen country.

What is the process for EES registration when entering or leaving the EU?

Please proceed to the border control counter to complete the regular entry process. Border officers will verify your registration and carry out the formal entry check. The same applies when leaving the EU: your departure will be recorded, and you may be asked to use a self-service kiosk or go directly to a border control point.

Should travelers expect longer waiting times due to EES?

Yes, travelers should expect longer waiting times, especially during the initial implementation phase. Even in the long term, border control may take more time due to the additional steps required for EES registration.

What should I do if my flight is delayed or you miss a connecting flight due to border procedures?

If you experience delays at border control that could affect your flight, please contact your airline immediately. They can assist you and guide you through the next steps.

Which information is needed for EES?

The Entry/Exit System records the following information: – personal data such as surname, forename, date of birth, and nationality; – passport number, issuing country, and type of travel document; – biometric data including a facial image and four fingerprints (excluding thumbs);  – travel details such as entry and exit dates, border crossing points, and the duration of your authorized stay

Do non-EU travelers always have to register when entering the EU?

No, if your biometric data was already registered during a previous trip and is still valid (within a 3-year retention period), you do not need to register again. However, each entry and exit is still automatically recorded by the EES.

Is it possible to also register my kids and family members?

No, each traveler must register individually, including children. Parents or guardians can assist children with the registration process at self-service kiosks or at manual border control.

Are children also required to register in the EES?

Yes, children are also required to register in the EES. For all non-EU nationals, including infants, an EES file will be created containing passport details and a facial image. Fingerprints are only required for travelers aged 12 and above. Specific rules apply to minors and may vary by country; please refer to official guidelines for more information.

What is the procedure for travelers with minors who don’t have their own travel documents?

Each traveler, including minors, must have their own valid travel document in order to be registered in the EES. If a child is only listed in a parent’s passport and does not have an individual document, EES registration is not possible. In such cases, entry may be denied or subject to manual processing, depending on the rules of the border authority. Please check with your airline or relevant embassy in advance.

What happens with my data? Will it be reused/stored?

Your personal data is processed in accordance with the EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). The EES stores your data solely for border control purposes and will not be used commercially. Data is stored for three years, or five years in case of an overstay. Only authorized authorities may access this information.

How long is my data stored in the EES?

Your personal data is stored in the EES for three years after your last border crossing. If you overstay or violate entry conditions, your data may be stored for up to five years.

How does the EES ensure data protection?

The EES is designed in full compliance with EU data protection laws. All personal and biometric data is encrypted, stored securely, and accessible only to authorized personnel under strict legal regulations.

What happens if a person refuses to provide biometric data?

If you refuse to provide biometric data, your registration cannot be completed, and you may be refused entry into the Schengen area. Providing this data is a legal requirement for non-EU nationals entering the EU.

Here you can find more information on the EES:

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