Learn how the EU’s new Entry/Exit System (EES) will be rolled out progressively and what it means for travelers entering or leaving the Schengen Area in 2025.

What the “Progressive Start” of the EU Entry/Exit System (EES) Means for Travelers

Image: European Commission – How the EES will work

🛰️ What Is the Entry/Exit System (EES)?

The Entry/Exit System (EES) is a new automated border management system that will replace passport stamps for non-EU travelers entering or leaving the Schengen Area.

Instead of manual passport stamping, the EES will record:

• Personal details
• Dates and locations of entry/exit
• Biometric data (fingerprints and facial image)

This digital registration will help track short-stay visits (e.g. 90 days in a 180-day period) and improve border security while simplifying checks for frequent travelers.

⚙️ What Does “Progressive Start” Mean?

The EU decided that the EES will not start all at once across every border. Instead, it will have a progressive (or phased) rollout, meaning different border points will activate the system at different times.

This gradual approach ensures:

• Technical readiness of border points
• Proper staff training
• Smooth transition without major disruptions

The rollout will begin in 12 October 2025, and full operation is expected by April 2026, according to the latest EU implementation roadmap.

🕒 Timeline: From Launch to Full Operation

During the transition, both systems — manual passport stamping and EES — will coexist at different border crossings.

✈️ What to Expect as a Traveler

Here’s what you need to know during the progressive start of EES:

1. Expect Slightly Longer Border Checks

Collecting biometric data (fingerprints + facial image) will take extra time, especially during your first entry under the new system.

2. Some Borders Still Use Passport Stamps

Not all airports and land borders will be equipped from day one. You might still get a traditional passport stamp in certain countries.

3. Your Biometric Data Will Be Registered Once

After your first EES registration, future crossings will be faster — your biometrics will already be stored for subsequent trips.

4. Double Nationals: Use the Right Passport

If you hold both an EU passport and a non-EU one, always travel with the EU passport to avoid unnecessary EES registration.

5. Overstays Will Be Detected Automatically

The EES will calculate how long you’ve been in the Schengen Area, making overstays immediately visible to border authorities.

6. Check if Your Border Is “EES Ready”

Before traveling, verify whether your airport or land border crossing already operates with the EES. Most EU airports will provide updates online.

📈 Why the EU Chose a Progressive Rollout

✅ Advantages

• Less risk of system failures during the early phase
• Gradual adaptation for border officers and travelers
• Opportunity to fix technical issues before full-scale deployment

⚠️ Challenges

• Different traveler experiences across Schengen countries
• Possible confusion if one border uses EES and another doesn’t
• Temporary delays during early implementation

Practical Tips for Smooth Travel During the EES Rollout

• Arrive earlier at airports (especially during the first months after October 2025)
• Keep your travel documents ready and cooperate during biometric capture
• Use e-gates where available — many will integrate EES quickly
• Stay updated via official EU travel websites before your trip

Final Thoughts

The progressive start of the EES marks the beginning of a new era in European border management — more secure, digital, and data-driven.

While it may cause some temporary delays at the start, it’s ultimately designed to make travel smoother and more efficient in the long run.

If you’re planning to travel or relocate to Europe under the Digital Nomad Visa, CarWay Migrate can help you navigate every step — from visa paperwork to compliance with new EU travel systems like EES and ETIAS.