The modernization of the European Union’s external borders is now underway. Since the fall of 2025, the Entry/Exit System (EES) has been gradually rolled out, while ETIAS, expected by the end of 2026, will complete this new digital landscape. Two acronyms that are often confused, yet two clearly distinct systems, both reshaping travel formalities for journeys to Europe. Here’s a closer look.
The European Commission has simultaneously presented the first European strategy on asylum and migration management and the European Union’s very first visa strategy. Designed as two complementary pillars, these initiatives set out a shared direction for the next five years, aimed at strengthening border controls, reducing irregular migration, attracting talent, and modernizing mobility management in a changing geopolitical and security environment.
Since October 12, 2025, non-EU travelers entering or leaving the Schengen Area have been subject to a new digital system called the Entry/Exit System (EES). This automated system replaces the traditional passport stamp and is designed to better monitor the length of stays while enhancing border security.
Starting on October 12, 2025, the new Entry/Exit System (EES) for travelers will begin to be rolled out at the external borders of European countries. Designed to modernize controls, this system will be fully operational by April 2026. The Entry/Exit System (EES) is a European program aimed at automating the
As the Schengen Area marks its 40th anniversary, the European Commission has unveiled a bold roadmap to modernize border management. With a focus on digitizing visas, rolling out the EES and ETIAS systems, and strengthening cybersecurity, the EU is shaping a more seamless, secure, and digitally-driven Schengen zone. As the
Members of the European Parliament’s Civil Liberties Committee have given the green light to the phased implementation of the Entry/Exit System (EES) at the European Union’s external borders. On April 23, On April 23, the European Parliament’s Civil Liberties Committee approved the step-by-step deployment of the Entry/Exit System (EES), continuing
The European Union has announced a further postponement of the ETIAS and EES systems, designed to modernize border control in the enlarged Schengen area. Faced with technical and organizational challenges, their implementation is now scheduled for October 2025 and the end of 2026.
In 2025, the European Union will introduce two new systems to strengthen the management of its external borders: EES and ETIAS. The aim is to modernize controls, improve security and facilitate the flow of travelers. Find out what’s going to change and how to prepare. The European Union is preparing
