Entry/Exit System(EES): Europe Has a New Travel Tracking System — Are You Prepared?
Entry/Exit System or EES
Traveling to Europe will come with some new requirements, and they will be easy to fill out. For several years, it has been discussed to have a better system in Europe to track non-EU national travelers, not holding the nationality of any European Union country or the nationality of Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway or Switzerland, who are traveling through certain European countries.
Entry/Exit System or EES is an automated IT system for registering non-EU nationals travelling for a short stay, each time they cross the external borders of any of the following European countries using the system:
The EES defines a short stay as one up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This period is calculated as a single period for all the European countries using the EES, and you do not need a visa for short stays.
So what should you expect when crossing borders?
- Upon crossing an external border, your fingerprints and a facial image are captured and linked to your travel data.
- The system automatically registers your entry or exit date and place.
- This helps quickly identify overstayers and ensures smoother border control for genuine travelers.
- The data is stored securely and retained for up to 5 years for border management and law enforcement.
Why do they need information?
- Forms the foundation for the upcoming ETIAS travel authorisation system, planned to launch in 2024, requiring visa-exempt travelers to apply online before arrival.
- Makes border checks quicker and more reliable.
- Increases safety and helps prevent irregular migration.
- Facilitates better tracking to avoid overstaying and related penalties.
Do I have to do this every time I cross a border while trying throughout Europe?
Your facial photo and fingerprints will be stored in the EES system in advance. When you go through passport control, officers will simply verify this information, making the process quicker. In rare situations, they might need to capture your data again.
If you have a biometric passport, you can speed through entry using the self-service kiosks—where available—at the border crossing.
How do I let them know I am coming?
Great news, like everything else, there is an app!! The Travel to Europe mobile application is intended for non-EU travelers subject to EES registration. It enables users to pre-register their passport details and facial image prior to arriving at a border crossing point where the EES system is operational. Additionally, travelers can complete the entry conditions questionnaire through the app in advance.
Non-EU nationals may submit their information via the app within 72 hours before entering or exiting a European country.
While the application does not replace standard border control procedures, it facilitates a more streamlined, efficient, and expedited border crossing experience. As of 12 October 2025, you can use the Travel to Europe app when entering or exiting Sweden, where it supports passport data, facial image and entry questionnaire.
How to use the app?
- Download the app from App Store or Google Play.
- Create a new journey by selecting the European country using the EES you are arriving in or leaving from not earlier than 72 hours before the start of your journey
- Select the border crossing point and the time of your expected arrival there
- Scan the personal details page and the chip of your passport
- Take a selfie to confirm your identity
- Answer a few questions about your travel plans
- Optional: add co-travellers using steps 2-6
- Submit your journey
- Receive a confirmation that your journey has been accepted
- Go to the border crossing point and follow the border guard’s instructions
Got questions or want help ensuring your trips are EES-ready? Reach out anytime to our award-winning travel advisor team!
Happy and safe travels—because life really is better traveling!
