Starting April 10, 2026, the Entry/Exit System (EES) will be introduced in 29 European countries, changing border crossing rules for third-country nationals, including Ukrainians. It provides for the abolition of passport stamps and the transition to digital registration using biometric data, UNN reports.
What is EES
EES is a centralized electronic system that will record entries, exits, and refusals of entry to the Schengen area. It will also collect biometric data — fingerprints and facial photos. The main goal is to automatically control the length of stay and enhance security.
Who does this concern?
The system will apply to citizens of non-EU countries, including Ukrainians, who travel for a short period — up to 90 days. It covers tourists and business travelers without a residence permit.
At the same time, it does not apply to EU citizens, holders of long-term permits, and persons under temporary protection. Ireland and Cyprus will operate outside the system for now.
How will control be carried out?
Upon first entry, a full registration will be required — passport scanning, facial photo, and fingerprints. For children under 12, fingerprints are not taken.
Data will be stored for up to three years, so subsequent trips will be faster. Refusal to submit biometrics means a ban on entry.
Time and technical nuances
At the start, delays are possible — at some airports, waiting times can reach up to two hours. A biometric passport allows you to use automatic terminals and pass control faster, while with a regular passport, the procedure will take longer.
The EU has also launched the Travel to Europe app, which allows you to partially prepare for border crossing in advance.
Stay control
EES will automatically track compliance with the 90/180-day rule. This means that exceeding the period of stay will be recorded immediately and may lead to sanctions — from fines to a ban on entry.
In summary, it should be noted that EES does not change the conditions of visa-free travel for Ukrainians, but it makes control fully digital and significantly stricter. For most, this is just a technical change, but violations of the rules of stay are now practically impossible to hide.
Paid entry to the EU for Ukrainians from 2026 - all about the new rules03.03.26, 15:14