EU Begins Replacing Passport Stamps With Biometric Entry/Exit System Today

Overview

• The phased rollout of the Entry/Exit System starts on 12 October 2025 and is due to finish by 9 April 2026, with manual stamps still possible during the transition.
• On initial entry, non‑EU travelers register fingerprints and a facial image, then on subsequent trips are identified primarily by facial recognition, while children under 12 provide only a photograph.
• The system applies across 29 European countries in the Schengen area and associated states, and the United Kingdom is not participating.
• Authorities caution that processing times may increase during early months, with a major stress period expected around Easter 2026.
• A separate ETIAS travel authorization is planned for late 2026, requiring an online application and a €20 fee valid for three years or until the passport expires.