The EU has once again delayed the launch of the Entry/Exit System (EES) — the system that will require Brits and other non-EU citizens to provide fingerprints and facial scans at Schengen borders. The official reason: maintaining “fluidity” at border crossings. For travelers, this means the old rules still apply for now, but don’t get too comfortable.
What is EES and who does it affect?
EES is an automated IT system designed to replace manual passport stamps. It records entries and exits of third-country nationals (including UK citizens) crossing the borders of the 29 Schengen countries. The system collects biometric data: fingerprints and a digital facial image. Data is stored for three years.
It applies to all non-EU citizens except residents and those from countries with visa-free access — primarily tourists from the UK, US, Canada, and other nations.
What changed and when?
The EES launch has been postponed again. The exact new date isn’t specified in the source, but this isn’t the first delay: the system was initially planned for 2022, then 2023, then 2024. The reasons are technical unpreparedness and fears that border queues could paralyze tourism.
Until EES goes live, the old rules apply: passport control with stamps, standard questions about your trip, and the 90/180-day rule for visa-free travelers from the UK and other countries.
The payment side: what matters now
While EES is not a visa or a fee, it’s closely tied to money and documents. Once operational, it will integrate with ETIAS — the electronic authorization system for visa-free travelers. ETIAS will require an online application and a fee (amount not finalized, but discussed around €7). Payment will be card-only, so your card must work with European payment gateways.
In the meantime, keep these payment aspects in mind:
- Hotel bookings often require pre-authorization — a hold on your card. Foreign cards may incur conversion fees.
- Refunds for canceled bookings can take up to 30 days and may lose value on exchange rates.
- Taxis and eSIMs are easier to pay with a virtual card to avoid exposing your main one.
How to prepare for a Schengen trip now
Until EES launches, the checklist is simple:
- Check your passport validity — it must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure from Schengen.
- Have proof of accommodation and return tickets — border officers may ask.
- Show financial means: bank statement or cash. Amount depends on the country and length of stay.
- Get medical insurance with at least €30,000 coverage — required for a Schengen visa, but may be checked at the border too.
For all these expenses, a virtual card issued within a European or international payment network is handy — it reduces the risk of blocks and simplifies refunds.
What’s next
The EU continues to refine EES, and this delay is a breather, not a cancellation. Once the system launches, your first border crossing will take longer: biometrics will be collected. Watch official announcements on the European Commission portal and don’t plan tight connections.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial or legal advice. Check current requirements on official consulate and EU websites.
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