From october 12, the EES comes into effect: the new border control system for the Schengen Area

In less than a week, starting October 12, 2025, the European Union will gradually introduce the new Entry/Exit System (EES)—an electronic system designed to modernize the management of the external borders of the Schengen area. The project, coordinated by the European Commission, aims to digitize border checks for entry and exit of third-country nationals, replacing the traditional passport stamps with an automated and secure electronic recording of travel data.

A step toward smarter borders

The EES marks a turning point in how Europe manages travel flows from non-EU countries. Upon entering or leaving the Schengen area, non-EU citizens will be required to provide biometric data—such as fingerprints and facial images—which will be stored in a shared electronic database. This information will help identify more accurately potential “overstayers”—those who remain in the Schengen territory beyond the 90 days permitted within a 180-day period—and prevent cases of document or identity fraud.

The stated goal is twofold: to make Europe’s borders more secure and to simplify travel procedures through faster, automated checks.

Where and when it will be implemented

The system will be operational in 29 European countries, including all Schengen Area member states.
In addition to EU countries such as Italy, France, Germany, and Spain, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland will also participate. The introduction will take place gradually over about six months; during this period, passport stamping will continue. Starting April 10, 2026, however, the EES will be fully operational at all external border crossing points.

Who the new system applies to

The EES will apply to non-EU nationals entering the Schengen area for short stays—both those who require a Schengen visa and those who are visa-exempt.

For travelers applying for an Italian visa, the system will automatically record a facial image, while fingerprints are already collected at the time of the visa application. Visa-exempt travelers, on the other hand, will need to provide four fingerprints and a facial image upon their first entry.

Those who already hold a valid residence permit for Italy or another Schengen country will not be required to register in the EES for the duration of their permit’s validity.

Automation and technology at border crossings

Many Schengen countries will gradually introduce self-service kiosks to facilitate border checks. These terminals will allow travelers to pre-register their biometric data and verify information already stored in the system. Once the process is complete, the border officer’s verification will be faster since the data will have been electronically pre-checked.

To use the automated service, travelers must hold a biometric passport, although traditional passports will still remain valid for entry.

Data protection and security

The European Commission has ensured that the EES will comply with the highest standards of data protection and privacy. Collected information will be stored for a limited period and can only be used by competent authorities for legitimate security and border management purposes.

According to Brussels, the use of biometric data reduces the risk of identification errors, discrimination, and unlawful profiling, while also strengthening efforts against organized crime, human trafficking, and terrorism.

For more information, the Commission has published educational materials and awareness campaigns available at the official website: 🔗 https://ec.europa.eu/assets/home/EES-information-campaign-materials/index-2.html

A new era for Non-EU travelers

With the introduction of the EES, Europe takes a decisive step toward border digitalization, making checks more efficient and transparent. For those planning to travel to or settle in Italy, understanding the new rules in advance is essential: from applying for an Italian visa to requesting a residence permit, authorities will rely on a shared and automated system designed to ensure greater security and traceability.

This change represents an inevitable evolution toward modern, safe, and technologically advanced mobility—a border system that looks to the future of Europe.

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The content of this article is intended to provide general information on the topic. For doubts or specific cases, it is advisable to seek specialized legal advice tailored to your particular situation.