FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

The Entry/Exit System (EES) is a new EU-wide system that automatically records when third-country nationals enter and exit the Schengen area. It replaces manual passport stamping and helps monitor the permitted duration of short stays to ensure compliance with entry and exit regulations.

EES applies to third-country nationals entering the Schengen area for short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period, provided they do not hold a residence permit or a long-stay visa.

The self-service systems are automated kiosks located before the actual border control. They allow travelers to scan their passports, provide required travel information, and register biometric data such as fingerprints and a facial image.

EES does not apply to EU citizens or citizens of associated Schengen countries (Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, Liechtenstein). It also excludes their non-EU family members who hold a residence card, as well as travelers with a residence permit or a national long-stay visa issued by a Schengen country.

If self-service kiosks are available at your airport, use them to pre-register your data. You will scan your travel documents and provide biometric data.

After completing this step, proceed to the nearest border control desk for the formal entry process. Border officers will verify your registration.

The same applies when leaving the EU: your departure will be recorded, and you may be asked to use a kiosk or go directly to a border control desk.

You need a biometric passport with an embedded chip that stores your personal and biometric data. This is necessary to use automated border control systems.

EES collects the following data:

• Personal details (name, date of birth, nationality)
• Passport number, issuing country and document type
• Biometric data (facial image and four fingerprints, excluding thumbs)
• Travel details (entry/exit dates, border crossing points, duration of authorized stay)

No, each traveler must register individually, including children. Parents or guardians may assist children during registration at kiosks or manual border control.

Your personal data is processed in accordance with the EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). EES stores your data solely for border control purposes and does not use it commercially. Data is stored for three years, or five years if you exceed your authorized stay. Only authorized authorities can access this information.

EES was developed in full compliance with EU data protection regulations. All personal and biometric data is encrypted, securely stored, and accessible only to authorized personnel under strict legal conditions.

You may keep piercings and glasses during registration as long as your face remains clearly visible. If the system cannot capture a clear image, border officers may ask you to temporarily remove certain items.

Providing biometric data is legally required for third-country nationals entering the EU. If you refuse, registration cannot be completed, and entry into the Schengen area may be denied.

Many airports offer digital self-service kiosks where travelers can scan documents and register biometric data. These systems can only be used with a biometric passport.

Yes, longer waiting times may occur, especially during the initial implementation phase. Even in the long term, border control may take more time due to the additional steps required for EES registration.

If border control delays affect your flight, contact your airline immediately. They can assist you and guide you through the next steps.

If registration fails at the self-service kiosk, proceed to a manual border control desk. Border officers will complete your registration there.

Your personal data is stored for three years after your last border crossing. If you overstay or violate entry conditions, your data may be stored for up to five years.

Yes, children must be registered in EES. All non-EU citizens, including infants, will have an EES file containing passport data and a facial image. Fingerprints are only required for travelers aged 12 and above. Special rules apply to minors and may vary by country.