The European Commission has set 12 October 2025 as the date for the gradual launch of the EU’s entry/exit system (EES) (see EUROPE 13643/9), according to a press release dated Wednesday 30 July.
The EES is an “advanced technological system that will digitally record the entries and exits of non-EU nationals travelling to 29 European countries, including Schengen Associated ones, for short stays. It will capture biometric data, such as fingerprints, facial image, and other travel information, gradually replacing the current system of passport stamping”.
The gradual launch of the EES is intended to ensure that “border authorities, the transport industry and affected travellers have time to adjust to the new procedures”, explains the Commission.
From 12 October, Member States will begin rolling out the EES gradually over a six-month period. The border authorities will gradually record the data of third-country nationals crossing borders. At the end of this period, the EES will be fully deployed at all border crossing points.
Those who are ready by 12 October will also be able to launch the full system. (Original version in French by Solenn Paulic)