Navigating Europe’s New Entry/Exit System: What Travelers Need to Know

Planning a trip to Europe? With summer right around the corner, many travelers are finalizing plans for dreamy destinations like Santorini Oia hotels or booking romantic stays near hotels near San Marco, Venice. But if you’re traveling to the European Union (EU) later this year, you’ll want to be aware of an important update: the EU is launching a new Entry/Exit System (EES) in October 2025. Here’s what it means for travelers and how to prepare.

What is the Entry/Exit System (EES)?

The EES is an automated system that will replace the current practice of manually stamping passports when non-EU travelers enter and exit the Schengen Zone. Instead, the system will digitally record information such as your name, travel document, biometric data (fingerprints and facial images), and entry/exit details.

For travelers dreaming of romantic vacation spots for couples in Europe, this change will be important to keep in mind. While it aims to improve border security and efficiency, the initial adjustment period may lead to longer wait times at immigration checkpoints.

How Will the EES Impact Travelers?

If you're heading to Europe in 2025 or beyond, the new Entry/Exit System (EES) will bring some changes to how you move through border control. On your first entry, biometric data—your fingerprints and a facial scan—will be collected and stored for three years, making future visits more seamless. Expect to see more eGates and self-service kiosks as automated border control expands to speed up processing times. Plus, the system will automatically track how long you've been in the Schengen Area, helping to prevent overstays. While these updates are designed to make travel easier in the long run, travelers may face a few bumps in the road as the system rolls out.

Preparing for the EES: Travel Tips

To ensure your vacation—whether it's a sunset-filled escape in Santorini, Greece, in June or a Venetian getaway—is stress-free, follow these tips:

1. Check Your Passport Validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned stay.

2. Arrive Early at Airports and Border Crossings: With new procedures in place, expect some delays—especially at busy hubs.

3. Consider Travel Insurance: Travel disruptions are always possible, and with new border policies, it’s wise to have coverage. If your trip includes multiple destinations, make sure your policy covers them all.

4. Stay Updated on ETIAS: In 2026, the EU will introduce ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System), which will require visa-exempt travelers to apply for online pre-authorization before entering.

Final Thoughts

With breathtaking destinations like private villas in Santorini or the historic charm of Venice’s canals, Europe remains a dream destination. While the EES is a big change, a little preparation goes a long way in ensuring your trip is as seamless as possible. Keep these tips in mind, plan ahead, and soon you’ll be sipping wine under a Venetian sunset or basking in the beauty of Santorini’s whitewashed cliffs.