EES: EU’s New Border System
The European Union (EU) has started implementing its new Entry/Exit System (EES), redefining how non-EU travelers cross Schengen borders. Correspondingly, it effectively phases out manual passport stamping using the capture of digital biometric information. Following years of delays, the border system finally launched on October 12. But travelers’ experiences have been inconsistent in various countries and airports.
Specifically, the EES logs every entry, exit, and refusal of entry going in and out of the EU. The system makes use of facial and fingerprint information to verify travelers’ identity, aiming to streamline future border crossings. The European Commission notes that by 2026, the EES will be fully operational across 29 countries and 300+ border points. However, the first phase of the implementation has only revealed more challenges than upsides.
How the EES Works
In particular, the EES automatically records when non-EU nationals enter or leave the Schengen zone. It replaces border stamps with a secure electronic record valid for three years. On the first crossing, border officers collect facial images and fingerprints. Meanwhile, at subsequent entries, verification is quicker since the data already exists.
Notably, the system aims to reduce overstays and enhance border security. Nevertheless, early reports show that practical challenges remain. For instance, equipment availability, passenger flow, and staff training all affect how smoothly checks proceed. Despite these hurdles, EU officials maintain that the system will modernize travel documentation.
France: Gradual EES Rollout
In France, the EES went live on October 12 under a phased rollout. Officials introduced the system cautiously, limiting full checks to short trial periods each day. But at some airports, kiosks and scanners were visible but not yet active.
In particular, travelers have reported very different experiences. One reader told The Connexion France that the process “took around 15 minutes” during their October 20 flight from the UK. However, others said they crossed borders without any biometric checks at all.
In addition, according to border officers, smaller ports and regional airports may still rely on manual verification. That’s because not every entry point has full biometric equipment installed. Despite this, once travelers are registered, their next crossings should be faster. Thereafter, the EES database retains biometric data for up to three years after the last recorded exit.
Overall, French authorities urge travelers to arrive early and stay patient during this testing period. Moreover, many expect longer queues before efficiency improves. Still, the digital registration should eventually shorten wait times and simplify compliance tracking.
Spain: EES Start Dates Confirmed
Likewise, Spain also began activating its EES system on October 12, though initially at select locations. According to The Olive Press, only Malaga–Costa del Sol Airport went live during the first week. Since then, the Spanish Ministry of Interior has confirmed key rollout dates at major airports.
For instance, Alicante–Elche and Barcelona–El Prat airports will start on October 27, while Palma de Mallorca will follow on November 19. Meanwhile, authorities expect other airports to join later this year. However, officials noted that some systems may operate only part-time during testing.
Despite these gradual steps, Spain’s approach appears more structured than France’s. As a result, travel experts say the country aims to minimize disruption before the busy winter season. Still, officials advise travelers to arrive early, as biometric checks may extend processing times.
In 2024 alone, 309 million air passengers passed through Spanish airports. As such, even a brief delay per traveler could cause long queues during peak travel periods. Therefore, Spanish airports are prioritizing automation and training to ensure a smoother rollout.
Traveler Tips and Practical Takeaways
For travelers heading to France or Spain, preparation for the EES remains key. Generally, expect some variation depending on where you cross the border. If it’s your first trip since the system began, then allow extra time for biometric registration. In contrast, subsequent entries should be faster, requiring only a face scan or fingerprint check.
In the meantime, travelers might still receive passport stamps. Specifically, this transitional step ensures legal clarity while the system stabilizes. Officials confirm that both manual and digital checks can occur during this phase.
Why the EES Matters
Overall, the EES aims to strengthen Europe’s external borders, track overstays, and enhance security. However, the transition also highlights the challenges of balancing efficiency with privacy and practicality. As such, biometric data must be stored securely and processed lawfully under EU regulations. Therefore, border agencies are required to follow strict data-protection protocols.
The European Commission estimates that full Schengen-wide implementation will conclude by April 2026. Until then, travelers can expect mixed experiences depending on location and timing.
Looking Ahead
Ultimately, the EES represents Europe’s biggest border control change in decades. While early hiccups are inevitable, the system’s long-term goal is clear: faster, smarter, and more secure travel.
Photo by John Oswald on Unsplash
