Overview
- The Entry/Exit System replaces passport stamping for non‑EU travellers across 29 Schengen countries, requiring a passport scan, fingerprints and a facial photo, with Ireland and Cyprus excluded.
- Full deployment is set for April 10, with the EU granting limited summer flexibilities and allowing airports to suspend EES for up to six hours during peak surges.
- Airports report processing times up to 70% longer and peak queues of around three hours, while industry groups warn waits could hit four hours during busy periods.
- The EU’s optional Travel to Europe app lets travellers pre‑enter passport data and a facial image up to 72 hours before arrival at supported airports such as Lisbon, though it does not replace border checks.
- Travellers are advised to allow extra time and longer layovers, as even those already enrolled typically use non‑EU lanes for verification, and a separate €20 ETIAS pre‑travel authorisation is planned for late 2026.