Commission launches information campaign to inform travellers about the Entry/Exit System

The Entry/Exit System (EES) is set to enter into operation on 12 October 2025, modernising the border check procedures for non-EU nationals travelling for short stays to Europe. The European Commission launched an information campaign to ensure a smooth transition to the EES changes and to inform millions of visitors subject to the EES registration. The campaign was prepared in cooperation with the European Data Protection Supervisor, national supervisory authorities and member states experts.

About the EES

The EES is an advanced IT system that will digitally record the entries and exits of non-EU nationals travelling to 29 European countries, for short stays. It will register biometric data such as fingerprints, facial images, and passport data.

The EES will modernise and improve the management of external borders. By accurately tracking data, it will help prevent irregular immigration, identify overstayers, and reduce identity fraud. Internal security will be enhanced through real-time access to reliable information, enabling relevant national authorities to swiftly identify individuals posing a security threat.

From 12 October onwards, European countries using the EES will start introducing the EES gradually over a period of six months. Border authorities will progressively register the data of third country nationals crossing the external Schengen borders. At the end of the progressive period, the EES will be fully deployed at all border crossing points.

The campaign will run in parallel with the launch of the EES and continue for about a year. A wide range of materials has been produced to support it: printed information that can be displayed at border crossing points, dedicated leaflets for travellers and for carriers, and digital materials such as visuals, videos and social media content. By being available in all EU official languages and several widely spoken non-EU languages, the information will be accessible to as many travellers as possible, both inside and outside the EU.

The EES official website brings together all relevant information for travellers: how the system works, who it applies to, and what to expect at border controls. It also includes frequently asked questions, information on data protection and travellers' rights, and access to communication materials in multiple languages. The website is regularly updated.

Reaching travellers worldwide requires joint effort. Member States, carriers, travel and tourism agencies, EU Delegations in third countries and other partners are invited to share the campaign materials across their networks, whether at consulates, airports, ferry terminals, train stations, travel hubs or online.

Download the campaign materials here.

Find out more about EES: EES - EES Homepage

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