EU to launch digital border system on October 12, replacing stamps for visitors

Brussels: The EES will start with major airports, then roll to seaports and land crossings over six months before full implementation across the EU.

The passport stamp will gradually disappear for non-European visitors starting October 12, as the European Union replaces manual stamping with biometric data collection. The Entry/Exit System (EES) launches across 29 countries, affecting 700 million annual border crossings.

The system rolls out progressively over six months, as border posts introduce facial recognition and fingerprint scanning at airports, seaports, and land crossings. The EU aims to complete implementation across all external Schengen borders by April 10, 2026.

First-time visitors will provide a facial photograph and four fingerprints at border crossings. The biometric data creates digital profiles enabling automatic stay calculations and faster subsequent processing. Children under twelve provide facial images only.

The EES applies to all non-EU nationals visiting for short stays up to 90 days within any 180-day period, whether visa-free or holding short-stay visas. Visitors who provided fingerprints during visa applications need border officers to capture only facial images.

European Commission officials describe the system as replacing “time-consuming manual stamping that provides unreliable data and fails to systematically detect overstayers.” Digital records will automatically track visitor movements and identify overstayers, addressing persistent Schengen enforcement challenges.

Travelers with biometric passports can use self-service kiosks at participating crossings. The technology aims to reduce wait times after initial enrollment, though visitors should expect delays during the first months.

Large airports will deploy the system first, with smaller ports and land crossings following over six months. Some crossings may continue traditional stamping until systems become operational. The EU has prioritized major hubs like Frankfurt and Charles de Gaulle for early deployment, while remote borders require additional time.

The system stores passport details, entry and exit records, and biometrics for three years, extending to five years for overstayers or unregistered exits. European privacy regulations restrict database access to authorized agencies.

Member state readiness varies considerably. Malta and other countries required additional time for infrastructure upgrades and personnel training. Recent reports highlight implementation challenges as nations work toward the October deadline.

Industry representatives support the gradual approach, providing adjustment time for airlines and ferry operators. Some companies express concerns about potential delays during the initial months.

The EES creates the foundation for the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS), launching in the fourth quarter of 2026. ETIAS will require visa-exempt visitors to obtain pre-travel authorization for €20, similar to the US ESTA program.

Combined, both systems address evolving security challenges and increasing travel volumes. Officials anticipate improved security and reduced processing times after implementation.

Europe joins the first regions deploying comprehensive digital border management, though extended development has drawn criticism. Both programs experienced multiple delays, with officials postponing ETIAS five times from its 2021 launch.

Australia eliminated passport stamping in 2012, Argentina in 2022, and several Asian countries recently. European officials say their system incorporates lessons from earlier implementations while addressing continental challenges.