If you're an American planning a trip to Europe in late 2025 or beyond, get ready for a new travel requirement. The European Union is rolling out the Entry/Exit System (EES), a digital border control policy that will require biometric data, including fingerprint scans and facial images, from most non-EU travelers. This major change impacts millions of U.S. citizens who travel visa-free to Europe each year. In this article, we'll break down what's changing, why it's happening, and how it will affect your next trip to Europe.
What Is the Entry/Exit System (EES)?
The EES is a new automated IT system designed to strengthen border security and replace the old method of manually stamping passports. Instead of ink stamps, the EES will:
Record the entry and exit dates of travelers
Store biometric data (fingerprints and facial recognition)
Apply to non-EU nationals, including Americans, Canadians, Australians, and other visa-exempt travelers
For an official overview from the EU, you can refer to this page from the European External Action Service: Travel to Europe: the European Entry/Exit System (EES).
When Will the EES Start?
The EES is scheduled for a gradual rollout starting in 2025. This phased approach was confirmed by the European Parliament to ensure a smooth implementation across borders:
2025: Initial launch date for air borders
By 2026: Full rollout across all entry points (land, sea, air) in the 29 participating countries
You can read the official press release on the phased implementation here: Border security: Agreement on gradual roll-out of Entry/Exit System. This means that any American traveler flying into Europe after the 2025 launch will likely be asked to provide biometric scans at their first entry point.
Which Countries Are Included in the EES?
The 29 Participating Countries
The EES will apply to the 29 European countries that are part of the Schengen Area. This includes most of the EU, plus associated nations. Popular destinations for American travelers include France, Italy, Spain, Germany, Greece, and the Netherlands. A full list of Schengen countries and detailed information on the system can be found on the official European Commission website: Entry/Exit System (EES).
Who Will Be Affected by the New System?
Travelers Subject to EES
U.S. Citizens entering Schengen countries for short stays (tourism, business, family visits)
Visa-exempt travelers from other countries
Exceptions to the Rules
Children under 12 will not be fingerprinted, but photos may still be taken
What to Expect at the Border
The Registration Process
On your first trip after the system launches, you will be asked to:
Provide fingerprints
Have a live facial photo captured
Your biometric data will be stored in the EES database for three years after your last trip. On future trips, border checks will be faster since the system already has your data. The European Commission has launched an information campaign to help travellers understand the new process. Learn more here: Commission launches information campaign to inform travellers about the Entry/Exit System.
Why Is Europe Implementing the EES?
Key Objectives
The goal of EES is to:
Improve border security
Reduce illegal overstays
Speed up processing time at border checkpoints
Replace outdated passport stamping with a more accurate system
This aligns with the EU's broader move toward digital border control, which will also include the upcoming ETIAS travel authorization.
How Should American Travelers Prepare?
Practical Preparation Tips
Allow Extra Time: Initial rollouts may mean longer lines at airports as border agents and travelers adjust to the new process
Carry Valid Documents: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months
Stay Informed: For the most current and practical advice, check resources from diplomatic missions, such as this one from the German Federal Foreign Office: The EU's new Entry-Exit System (EES)
Final Thoughts
The new fingerprint scan requirement for Americans traveling to Europe marks a major shift in how borders are managed. While it may add a few extra minutes to your journey, it also promises more security, efficiency, and convenience in the long run. If you're planning a Europe trip after 2025, prepare for this change now, and remember that travel policies are evolving worldwide.
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