EES System Error Could Cost Author Jojo Moyes €10,000 Fine and Ban from Schengen Area

Issues with the EES Tracking System

According to Radiotrek — Світ: The Entry/Exit System (EES), designed to monitor arrivals and departures within the Schengen Area, has encountered errors that may falsely indicate overstays beyond the 90-day limit. British author Jojo Moyes faces a potential €10,000 fine and a two-year travel ban following a system glitch. Introduced in October 2025 and mandatory across 29 countries since April 10, 2026, the EES replaces traditional passport stamps by digitally recording border crossings in all EU member states except Cyprus and Ireland, as well as Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein.

Potential Consequences for Travelers

Non-EU citizens are allowed to stay within the Schengen zone for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. Entry and exit data are collected either by border officers or automated self-service kiosks at external borders. However, if an exit is not properly logged by officials, travelers may be mistakenly flagged as overstaying.

Jojo Moyes visited Portugal in May 2026 but discovered in October that her departure was never recorded. Official statements confirm:

“The author traveled to Portugal in May, and upon arriving in Marseille, it was discovered her exit had not been registered.”

To prevent such issues, travelers are advised to regularly check their recorded days on the official EES website before future trips. If discrepancies arise, they must submit a written correction request online, including a scanned passport and proof of exit, such as a boarding pass or bus/train ticket. Taking these precautions can help avoid serious complications related to Schengen stays.

Moyes’ experience highlights the critical need for the EES to function accurately in tracking foreigners’ time within the Schengen Area. Incorrect records can lead to heavy fines and entry bans, emphasizing the importance of awareness and proactive steps under the new regulations for all travelers.

As the EES system continues to evolve, understanding the nuances of the 90/180-day rule in the Schengen Area becomes increasingly important for travelers. With potential fines and travel restrictions looming, staying informed about how these regulations have been calculated since 2013 and the upcoming changes in 2026 can help prevent complications similar to those faced by Moyes. Being proactive in understanding these rules is essential for a smooth travel experience within the Schengen zone.