Flying to Schengen? Here is what the border now records

The EES (Entry/Exit System) is an electronic record of entries and exits that replaces passport stamps. The European Commission published its explainer on 27 July 2026. Since launch the system has registered over 145 million entries and exits.

It applies to non-EU nationals on short stays. Nationals of EU countries, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland are not registered.

Exempt: nationals of Andorra, Monaco and San Marino and holders of Vatican passports; non-EU nationals with a long-stay visa or residence permit from a country operating the EES, though Cyprus and Ireland documents do not exempt; family members of EU, Icelandic, Liechtenstein, Norwegian or Swiss citizens holding a residence card or permit, even when travelling alone.

This is an explainer of a rule in force, not breaking news. Check the current rules for your passport before you travel.

已确认的事实

• The EES has been fully operational at all external Schengen border crossings since 10 April 2026.^[1]
• For non-EU short-stay travellers it records travel document data, fingerprints, a facial image, entry and exit.^[1]
• Nationals of the EU, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland are not registered.^[1]
• Holders of a long-stay visa or residence permit from an EES country are exempt; Cyprus and Ireland documents do not exempt.^[1]
• Family members of EU and EFTA citizens with a residence card or permit are exempt, even travelling alone.^[1]
• Since launch the system has registered over 145 million entries and exits.^[1]

影响

• 已确认Non-EU travellers give biometrics on their first entry after the EES launch.
• 我们的解读Border checks may take longer, especially on busy days.

仍未知

• How long registration currently takes at specific crossings.

影响到谁

Schengen area. Non-EU nationals on short trips to Schengen

来源

1. Европейская комиссия: Entry/Exit System fully operational since 10 April 2026: who is exempt? 2026年7月27日 · 官方