The EU introduces biometric borders — the “Entry/Exit” system launches on October 12

The European Union will launch the biometric “Entry/Exit System” (EES) on Sunday, October 12, 2025, to register arrivals and departures in 29 Schengen Area countries, Philenews reports.

The system will replace traditional passport checks with digital facial records, fingerprint data, and travel dates. The new procedure will apply in 25 EU member states as well as Switzerland, Norway, Liechtenstein, and Iceland. Cyprus and Ireland will continue conducting traditional passport controls for incoming passengers.

Non-EU nationals entering the Schengen Area for short stays (up to 90 days within a 180-day period) will undergo free registration in the EES. Upon arrival, travelers will answer questions in accordance with the Schengen Borders Code, creating a digital record stored for three years. For subsequent entries within that period, only fingerprints or a facial scan will be required, without full re-registration.

Countries equipped with automated border gates or mobile applications will provide faster crossings for users of such services. Australia’s Smartraveller service warns of possible initial delays and longer queues during the launch phase, although the registration process itself takes only a few minutes. Full operation of the system is planned for April 10, 2026.