Regulation (EU) 2017/2226 established a centralized system, known as the Entry/Exit System (EES), for registering the entry and exit of third-country nationals crossing the external Schengen borders for stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. The new measure aims to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of border checks.
The new system – which will become operational on 12 October 2025 – will apply both to third-country nationals who require a visa for short stays and to those who are visa-exempt. It will generally replace the physical stamping of passports while at the same time providing reliable data on the crossing of external borders.
The new system will not apply to third-country nationals holding a national long-stay visa or residence permit issued by Schengen States; citizens of San Marino, the Principality of Andorra, the Principality of Monaco, and the Vatican City; nor to citizens of the European Economic Area (EEA) and of the Swiss Confederation, crew members, Sovereigns, Heads of State, and members of official delegations.
For details on the functioning and conditions of the EES, please refer to the following link EES – EES Homepage and to the attachments below.
