Entry – Exit System (EES) starts in October: what Western Balkans travellers need to know
Entry – Exit System (EES) starts in October: what Western Balkans travellers need to know
From 12 October 2025, Europe will begin rolling out the new Entry/Exit System (EES) at its external borders. The six-month transition runs until 9 April 2026, with full operation from 10 April 2026. During the transition, some border points will introduce EES sooner than others and passports will still be stamped; after full launch, stamps are replaced by electronic records.
Who is affected
EES applies to non-EU travellers on short stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period, including visa-free visitors and those holding a short-stay Schengen visa. EU/Schengen nationals and many long-stay residents are not subject to EES.
What changes at the border
On your first trip after EES starts, border officers or self-service kiosks will capture your travel-document data, the date and place of entry/exit, a facial image and four fingerprints. Subsequent crossings are typically faster because your details are already in the system.
Benefits for Western Balkans travellers
EES automates the 90/180-day calculation and, once fully live, removes stamp checks, helping reduce questions at the gate and making repeat trips smoother. Travellers will also be able to check how many days remain in their current allowance.
Families and children
Children under 12 will not have fingerprints taken; a facial image and document checks still apply.
Pre-registration option
Some countries may offer the “Travel to Europe” mobile app to pre-register passport data and a facial image before you arrive, making the first crossing quicker. Availability varies by country.
12 October 2025: EES begins, phased by country and border type
9 April 2026: Transition period ends
10 April 2026: EES fully in place across all external border points; stamping ends
To learn more about the EES, see sources below:
• EES overview and traveller guidance, Government of the European Union. Travel Europe
• Data held by EES. Travel Europe
• EES FAQs, including transition, stamps and exemptions. Travel Europe
• European Commission page on EES policy and timing. Migration and Home Affairs
• Information campaign and rollout details. eu-LISA
