Europe to Introduce New Digital Border Checks This October

The European Union has confirmed that its new Entry/Exit System (EES) will go live on 12 October 2025. This move marks a major shift in how non-EU travellers are processed when entering or leaving the Schengen Area.

The EES will replace the current passport-stamping system with biometric checks. When crossing the EU’s external borders, travellers will need to provide their facial scans and fingerprints. This applies to both visa-exempt visitors and those who require a visa.

In addition to biometric data, the system will store personal information, including full name, passport details, travel dates, and the point of entry or exit. It will also log any refusal of entry. New travellers must provide their data during the first visit, while repeat travellers will only need to verify their identity.

The rollout will take place over the next six months across 29 countries in the Schengen Area. Authorities aim to have the system fully operational by April 2026. The goal is to improve security, detect overstays, and reduce identity fraud.

EU officials say the new system will also help streamline border checks. Automated gates and self-service kiosks will allow faster processing for those with biometric passports. However, they caution that some delays may occur during the initial phase.

The EES is part of the EU’s broader Security Union agenda. The system is under development by EU-LISA, the EU agency that handles major technology systems used for border control, justice, and security across member states.

The EES was first proposed in 2016 as part of the EU’s Smart Borders Package and received formal approval from the European Parliament and Council the following year.

The change brings Europe in line with other regions already using biometric border systems and reflects the EU’s focus on modernising its external border management.