Travel News

✈️ New EU Entry/Exit System (EES): What Travelers Need to Know

A major change in European border control is now in effect, impacting how non-EU travelers enter and exit the Schengen area. The new Entry/Exit System (EES) introduces biometric checks and may lead to delays at airports, especially during the initial rollout.

Starting March 30, the European Union introduces the new Entry/Exit System (EES), bringing important changes to how non-EU travelers enter and exit the Schengen area.

If you are planning a trip or working with international travelers, here’s what you should know 👇

🌍 What is the EES?

The Entry/Exit System (EES) replaces passport stamping with a fully digital process.

At border control, the following will be recorded:

• Passport details
• Facial image
• Fingerprints

This data will be stored securely to improve border management and monitor travel duration.

👤 Who does it apply to?

The system applies to:

• Non-EU nationals
• Travelers staying up to 90 days within a 180-day period
• Both visa-required and visa-exempt visitors

🔄 What changes for travelers?

The key change is the shift to biometric border checks.

👉 During the initial phase:

• Processing times may be longer
• Delays may occur, especially for first-time registrations

👉 Over time:

• Border crossings will become faster
• The process will be more automated

🛫 What to expect at Athens International Airport

Athens Airport recommends:

✔️ Arriving at least 2.5 hours before departure
✔️ Having all travel documents ready
✔️ Allowing extra time for border control

⚠️ Late arrival may result in denied boarding.

🧭 How the process works

Passengers will follow these steps:

1. Present travel documents
2. Provide biometric data (photo & fingerprints)
3. Complete verification by border authorities

👉 In some airports:

• Self-service kiosks will be available
• Final check will still be required

⏳ Gradual rollout

The system has been gradually introduced since 2025 and will soon be fully implemented across the EU.

Its goal is to:

• Strengthen border security
• Improve efficiency in the long term

💡 Antaeus’ tip

As the system is still new:

👉 Plan ahead and allow extra time
👉 Inform non-EU travelers accordingly
👉 Stay flexible in case of delays

If you are planning international travel or managing business trips, Antaeus Travel team is here to support you every step of the way.
You may contact us at corporate@antaeustravel.com or marine@antaeustravel.com, or by phone at +30 211 1042100.

Source:gpt.gr & travel-europe.europa.eu
Photo source: European Emission