Europe is introducing the most significant changes to its border management system in years. Two new systems – the Entry/Exit System (EES), fully operational from 10 April 2026, and the upcoming European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) – are designed to modernize border controls, enhance security, and streamline travel procedures across Europe.
Although both systems apply to travellers from outside the European Union, they serve different purposes. In this article, we explain what EES and ETIAS are, who they apply to, and what formalities you should complete before travelling.
When Will the New Systems Come into Effect?
The Entry/Exit System (EES) began its implementation in Poland on 12 October 2025 and has been fully operational throughout the Schengen Area since 10 April 2026. From that date, passport stamps have also been discontinued.
The launch of ETIAS is currently planned for the fourth quarter of 2026. The exact implementation date will be officially announced by the European institutions later this year.
What Is EES?
The Entry/Exit System (EES) is a modern electronic system for recording entries into and exits from the external borders of the Schengen Area.
I discussed the EES system in more detail in article: Border Revolution: A Powerful New System Described as the “Biggest Challenge”.
The system applies to all non-EU nationals travelling to the Schengen Area for short stays of up to 90 days within any rolling 180-day period.
When crossing the external border, travellers are required to provide biometric data, which will be securely stored in the EES database.
Travellers can also speed up the border crossing process by using the “Travel to Europe” mobile application, which allows them to pre-register certain information up to 72 hours before arriving in participating European countries.
Using the application, travellers can:
- enter passport details before travelling;
- upload a facial photograph;
- provide basic travel information;
- reduce waiting times at airports and border crossings.
The application has been developed by European institutions and is designed to provide a secure and reliable method of submitting traveller information.
What Is ETIAS?
The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) is an electronic travel authorisation for nationals of countries that are currently exempt from visa requirements when travelling to Europe.
Once ETIAS becomes operational, eligible travellers will be required to obtain travel authorisation before travelling to 30 European countries, including all Schengen Member States.
Applications may be submitted exclusively online through:
- the official ETIAS website; or
- the official ETIAS mobile application.
Using only the official application channels helps travellers avoid fraudulent intermediaries charging excessive fees or misusing personal information.
EES vs. ETIAS – Key Differences
| EES | ETIAS |
| Records entries and exits at external borders | Provides pre-travel authorisation |
| Applies to all non-EU nationals travelling for short stays | Applies only to nationals of visa-exempt countries |
| No application is required before travelling | Online application required before departure |
| Collects biometric data at the border | Screens travellers before they begin their journey |
| Fully operational since 10 April 2026 | Expected to launch in the fourth quarter of 2026 |
What Should Travellers Remember?
The most significant change for travellers from visa-exempt countries will be the requirement to obtain ETIAS travel authorisation before departure.
Without a valid ETIAS authorisation, travellers may be denied boarding by their airline or refused permission to begin their journey to Europe.
If you are planning to travel to Europe in 2026 or later, it is advisable to determine well in advance whether ETIAS will apply to you and to familiarise yourself with the new border procedures introduced under the EES system.
How Can Our Law Firm Help?
The introduction of EES and ETIAS creates new obligations for millions of travellers from outside the European Union. Although many of these procedures will be completed electronically, misunderstanding your immigration status or failing to prepare properly for your journey may result in denied boarding, difficulties at border control, or refusal of entry into the Schengen Area.
Our law firm advises individuals and businesses on immigration and travel regulations relating to Poland and other Schengen countries. We help clients determine whether they require ETIAS authorisation or a visa before travelling and provide legal assistance with residence permits, immigration matters, and Polish citizenship applications.
If you are planning to visit or relocate to Poland for tourism, family, business, or long-term residence, we can assess your individual circumstances and help ensure that your travel complies with the latest European regulations, allowing you to avoid unnecessary complications at the border.
