On July 30, 2025, the European Commission has announced its decision to establish set October 12, 2025 as the launch date for the start of operations of the Entry/Exit System (EES).
From October 12 onwards, the EES will be progressively rolled out at the external borders of 29 European countries, over a period of six months. This progressive roll-out will give border authorities, travelers and the transport industry more time to adjust to new procedures.
The EES is an advanced IT system that will digitally record the entries and exits of non-EU nationals travelling to 29 European countries, for short stays. It will register biometric data, such as fingerprints, facial images, and other travel information.
From October 12 onwards, European countries using the EES will start introducing the EES gradually over a period of six months. Border authorities will progressively register the data of third country nationals crossing the external Schengen borders. At the end of the progressive period, the EES will be fully deployed at all border crossing points.
In the coming months, the Commission, along with European Union Agency for the Operational Management of Large-Scale IT Systems in the Area of Freedom, Security and Justice (eu-LISA), will keep working closely with European countries using the EES to ensure a smooth deployment of the system. As the launch date approaches, travelers can expect to see information campaigns and awareness-raising activities at border crossing points, including airports across the European countries using the EESU, as well as at consulates in third countries.
Erickson Insights and Analysis
Erickson Immigration Group will continue to monitor developments and share updates as more news is available. Please contact your employer or EIG attorney if you have questions about anything we’re reporting above or case-specific questions.