EES – The New Digital Border Control System in Europe
17/04/2026 by Animawings / General
The European Union is taking a major step toward the digitalization of travel with the introduction of the Entry/Exit System (EES) — an automated system that will change how the entry and exit of non-EU citizens are recorded.
For AnimaWings passengers, this means a faster and more efficient experience at border control.
What is EES
The Entry/Exit System (EES) is an IT system that will gradually replace passport stamping with a digital record. Each time a non-EU traveler enters or exits the European area, their data will be recorded automatically.
The system is being implemented across most European countries, including Romania, with the goal of simplifying border procedures while enhancing security.
Who does the system apply to
EES applies to travelers who: are not citizens of the European Union or countries such as Norway, Switzerland, Iceland, or Liechtenstein and are traveling for short stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period, regardless of whether they require a visa to enter the European area.
How EES works
At the first trip after EES implementation, border control will include the collection of additional data. Passengers will need to provide personal information, and authorities will capture a facial image and/or fingerprints.
This information will be stored digitally, and passports will no longer be stamped.
For subsequent trips, the process becomes much simpler. Since the data is already recorded, verification will consist only of biometric identity checks, significantly reducing waiting times at border control.
At certain airports, passengers with biometric passports may also use automated self-service systems, avoiding traditional border control, where available and if no restrictions apply.
What data is collected
The EES will record several types of information, including:
- data from the travel document (name, date of birth, etc.)
- date and place of each entry and exit
- biometric data (facial image and fingerprints)
- any record of entry refusal
All data is processed in accordance with European data protection legislation.
Benefits for passengers
The implementation of EES brings several clear advantages:
- reduced waiting times at border control due to automation
- simplified procedures, with no passport stamping
- faster processing through pre-registration options (where available)
At the same time, the system helps prevent fraud and enhances overall security within the European area.
Useful information before traveling
It is important to note that EES does not change the entry conditions into the European Union. Border authorities may still carry out additional checks when necessary.
There are also some exceptions: in countries such as Cyprus and Ireland, passports will continue to be stamped manually.
What EES means for AnimaWings passengers
For AnimaWings passengers, EES represents a step toward a more modern, faster, and safer travel experience. While the first interaction with the system may take slightly longer, over time border crossing procedures will become significantly more efficient.
We recommend informing yourself in advance before traveling and ensuring that you have all necessary documents ready.
AnimaWings wishes you smooth flights and worry-free travel, wherever your journey takes you.
