From October 12, 2025, a new automated control system EES (Entry/Exit System) will begin operating at the borders of the European Union. It will replace regular passport stamps with electronic registration of entries and exits. EES records the exact time and place of crossing the border, as well as biometric data such as photos and fingerprints. All this information is stored in a database for three years and is protected in accordance with GDPR.
Gradual implementation of the system
The new system applies to citizens of non-EU countries who stay in the Schengen area visa-free or with a short-term visa for up to 90 days. This means that Ukrainians traveling between Ukraine and Poland through the external borders of the Schengen zone will also fall under the EES.
The implementation of the system will be phased starting from October 12, 2025, and from April 10, 2026, it will become mandatory at all Schengen borders. Developers promise that thanks to electronic registration, waiting times at the border will be reduced, and border control will become more precise. For more detailed information about the system, its implementation, and answers to frequently asked questions, you can visit the official website
travel-europe.europa.eu/ees.
Starting from October 12, 2025, a new automated control system EES will be implemented at the EU borders, replacing regular passport stamps with electronic registration of entries and exits. This will improve border control and help avoid delays during border crossing. This system affects citizens of third countries who are in the Schengen area visa-free or with a short-term visa for up to 90 days, including Ukrainians traveling through the external Schengen borders.