What is the EU EES?

EES stands for Entry Exit System. It is part of the EU’s wider strategy to get better control of its borders. Biometric scans are being introduced for the first time as well as tracking of people to know how much time they have spent in the Schengen area.

How will EES work?

At an EO border entry point, like an airport, travellers must submit a facial scan at a passport e-gate as well as fingerprints into an electronic reader and answer questions about their visit. The checks are valid for 3 years.

How will EES affect the 90 in 189 days rule?

EES will track the 90 day rule, upholding the stipulation that tourists are only allowed to stay in the EU for 3 months in any rolling 6 month period.

EES came into force on 12 October 2025

The EU has given itself 6 months to roll out the system across its member countries. Countries are independent within this timeframe to manage their own implementation. Spain is being less stringent than France. Reports suggested only one flight into Madrid on 12 October was subject to checks and nothing for flights coming into Alicante or Murcia (Corvera).

Is EES the same as the electronic visa for the EU?

Not quite. Next year the EU will launch an electronic visa system. EES is a part of this. Under the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), non-EU travellers entering the bloc will have to have obtained the visa waiver at a cost of €20. The system mirrors closely the US ESTA system.