EU rolls out biometric Entry-Exit System for Schengen border checks

From Sunday, October 12, non European Union travellers entering the Schengen area began being required to register biometric information under the European Union's new EntryExit System, or EES, marking a phased shift from manual passport stamping to an automated digital border-record system across 29 countries. The rollout, which started at selected airports, seaports, rail terminals and road crossings, will be completed by April 10, 2026, the EU has said.

Under EES, most non EU nationals, including British passport holders, will have a facial image and fingerprints recorded on first entry and a digital record created that links those biometrics to their travel document. The system applies to short stays up to 90 days in any 180 day period and will log entry and exit dates, and any refusals of entry. Children must be registered, although those aged 12 and under are not required to provide fingerprints. Travellers who refuse biometric checks can be denied entry, officials warn.

The Commission says data held in the EES will be subject to EU data protection rules and retained for three years, with rights to access, correct or request deletion in line with privacy law. Some limited...