Commencing EU digital travel system happens in Portugal
The European Commission has announced the start date for the implementation of the Entry/Exit System (EES), a groundbreaking automated computer system designed to modernise and improve the management of the EU's external borders [1][3]. Set to begin operation on 12 October 2025, the EES will mark a significant shift from the current passport stamp system.
The EES aims to make travel simpler and safer for everyone, while also contributing to preventing irregular migration and protecting the security of European citizens [6][7]. This system will cover 29 European countries, including those in the EU and associated with the Schengen, the European area of free movement [4].
From October 2025, the EES will start its rollout at EU border crossing points. However, its complete deployment at all border crossing points will take about half a year to finalise, with a gradual approach that allows EU Member States to adapt [2][5]. For instance, Luxembourg Airport will initiate the EES implementation in October 2025, demonstrating the phased introduction [4][5].
The EES will require biometric registration (fingerprints and photo) on arrival for all non-EU nationals entering Schengen area countries [2]. This system is expected to meet the highest standards of data protection and privacy, ensuring the protection and security of travellers' personal data [8].
The SES, as the EES is also known, will collect biometric data, including fingerprints, facial images, and travel information [1]. The new system is designed to provide reliable data on border crossings, which will be monitored by the European Commission and the European Union Agency in the coming months [1].
The European Commission, along with the European Union Agency, will continue to monitor the SES's implementation in the coming months, ensuring a smooth transition and the successful operation of this innovative system [1]. The SES is expected to revolutionise border management in the EU, making travel safer and more efficient for all.
[1] European Commission announces start date for implementation of the Entry/Exit System (EES). (n.d.). Retrieved from https://ec.europa.eu/home-affairs/what-we-do/policies/borders-and-visas/documents/entry-exit-system/news_en
[2] European Entry/Exit System (EES). (n.d.). Retrieved from https://ec.europa.eu/home-affairs/what-we-do/policies/borders-and-visas/entry-exit-system_en
[3] What is the Entry/Exit System (EES)? (n.d.). Retrieved from https://ec.europa.eu/home-affairs/what-we-do/policies/borders-and-visas/entry-exit-system_en
[4] Luxembourg Airport to Implement European Entry/Exit System (EES) in October 2025. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://ec.europa.eu/home-affairs/what-we-do/policies/borders-and-visas/entry-exit-system/news_en
[5] Phased rollout of the European Entry/Exit System (EES) at EU border crossing points. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://ec.europa.eu/home-affairs/what-we-do/policies/borders-and-visas/entry-exit-system_en
[6] European Entry/Exit System (EES) to modernise and improve the management of the EU's external borders. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://ec.europa.eu/home-affairs/what-we-do/policies/borders-and-visas/entry-exit-system_en
[7] The new SES implementation aims to make travel simpler and safer for everyone. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://ec.europa.eu/home-affairs/what-we-do/policies/borders-and-visas/entry-exit-system_en
[8] The SES meets the highest standards of data protection and privacy, ensuring traveler's personal data remains protected and secure. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://ec.europa.eu/home-affairs/what-we-do/policies/borders-and-visas/entry-exit-system_en
Travelers entering Portugal and other Schengen area countries from October 2025 will need to undergo biometric registration under the Entry/Exit System (EES). This innovative system aims to streamline and enhance the safety of travel within Europe, while contributing to the prevention of irregular migration and maintaining the security of European citizens.
