EU rules on entry with fingerprints and photos come into force - details

The new EU digital border control system, which requires fingerprints and photos along with passport scans, is set to be fully operational from Friday, April 10, UNN reports.

As of April 10, 2026, the European Entry-Exit System (EES) is fully functional at all border crossing points on the external borders of the countries using EES.

As BBC notes, amid the system's launch, some European airports experienced long queues and warnings that delays could be even greater during busy holiday periods.

The European Commission stated that suspending EES system checks to ease queues would be allowed during peak hours until September.

On Friday, not all European airports, including Milan and Lisbon, will activate the system, BBC indicates.

What is the Entry-Exit System (EES)?

The European Entry-Exit System (EES) is a border control for non-EU citizens traveling to the Schengen Area of 29 European countries for short stays.

The Entry-Exit System will simplify travel to EU member states for short stays, replacing passport stamping with digital records.

Data will be collected at border crossing points of member states from April 10, 2026, the EEAS reported.

With a population of 450 million, the Schengen Area countries have abolished passport and border controls at their mutual borders. This creates a zone of free movement between them for citizens, residents, and visitors.

As a simplified border management system for the European Union, the Entry-Exit System (EES) is key to traveling within the Schengen Area.

Who is EES for?

The Entry-Exit System is intended for non-EU citizens traveling for a short stay to a European Schengen Area country. Exceptions apply.

What does EES do?

EES is a border check at the external border of the European Union/Schengen Area. The goal is to speed up border checks and improve internal security.

What information does EES require?

The EES system collects data already specified in your travel document, the date and place of each entry and exit, and biometric data.

As BBC notes, each passport will be scanned, then fingerprints and a photo will be taken.

As stated on the EES website, the EES system will store various biometric identifiers depending on whether you need a short-stay visa.

"No visa needed? In this case, the system will store 4 of your fingerprints and your facial image," the message says.

Children under 12 will not need to provide fingerprints.

Also, according to the BBC, travelers may be asked four questions about their trip, such as proof of accommodation and sufficient funds.

What is ETIAS and when will it appear?

The EU is also introducing a new visa-waiver system, linked to passports, called the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), which will be based on EES.

Non-EU citizens who do not require a visa to enter the EU will be able to apply online for pre-travel authorization.

ETIAS is not expected to start until the end of 2026, but the final date has not yet been confirmed, the BBC notes.

It is expected to cost 20 euros per application and will be valid for three years.

Persons under 18 and over 70 will need to apply but will not have to pay.