Overview

• Starting October 12, participating border posts begin switching to the electronic Entry/Exit System in a phased rollout determined by each state, with full operation targeted for April 10, 2026.
• The system records facial images, fingerprints, and entry/exit dates for short‑stay third‑country visitors, retaining personal records for three years, and photographs but does not fingerprint children under 12.
• Coverage spans 29 Schengen‑associated countries, with Croatia and Estonia among early implementers, while Ireland and Cyprus are not applying the change initially.
• Travelers who refuse to provide required biometric data will be denied entry to countries using the system, according to EU guidance.
• Privacy and fundamental‑rights bodies have cautioned about intrusiveness, bias and false negatives and issued guidance calling for safeguards and clear information for travelers.