European Union Implements New EES and ETIAS Travel Systems

The Entry/Exit System (EES) replaces manual passport stamping with an electronic record of each crossing, capturing a facial image and fingerprints for non-EU nationals making short stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period. It applies at the external borders of the Schengen area and is being introduced through a phased rollout during 2026. Separately, the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) will require visa-exempt travellers to obtain an online authorisation before departure, at a fee of around 20 euros, valid for three years or until the passport expires. Applicants under 18 or over 70 are exempt from the fee.