New rules for entering Schengen: goodbye, passport stamp
11 October 12:17
Starting from October 12, 2025, new rules for crossing the external borders of 29 European countries will apply to citizens of non-EU countries, regardless of whether or not they have a visa-free regime with the EU. The Schengen countries are introducing an electronic entry and exit system, the Entry Exit System (EES). They will collect and verify biometric data of third-country nationals upon entry and exit – at international airports, railway stations, road border crossings and seaports, "Komersant Ukrainian" reports with reference to DW.
Who will be affected by the new rules for entering Schengen countries
The EES will electronically record the data of third-country nationals arriving for a short visit to Schengen countries. This includes stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Third-country nationals who have a residence permit in Schengen countries will not be affected by this rule.
For residents and citizens of EU countries, as well as holders of long-term Schengen visas, separate queues will be created, where it will be necessary to present a visa or residence permit and passport.
How will the Schengen entry procedure change?
The first time you come into contact with the new system, you will need to take a photo and have your fingerprints taken. This will create a digital record, which will also include passport data. At subsequent Schengen border crossings, biometric data will be checked against this record. Children under the age of 12 do not need to be fingerprinted.
They will have to register either at special EES terminals or in machines at the border that will read passport data and collect biometric data of passengers. Only holders of biometric passports will be able to use the machines.
Should we expect big changes from EES at once?
Not all border checkpoints will immediately switch to the new system. The introduction of the EES will be gradual: by April 10, 2026, it should be fully implemented at all checkpoints, and passport stamps will be replaced by electronic records in the database.
In the meantime, the European authorities will be able to decide at which border crossings and when to start using this system – the transition period should give border guards, transporters, and travelers the opportunity to adapt to the new procedures.
According to The Independent, only the Czech Republic, Estonia, and Luxembourg will fully implement EES on October 12. Germany starts with Düsseldorf Airport, where only a small portion of passengers will have to go through the new system at first. Frankfurt and Munich will follow.
