Overview

• The rollout began at Düsseldorf airport with Frankfurt and Munich due within six months, followed by all German airports and seaports and full Schengen deployment by April 10, 2026.
• First-time entrants provide four fingerprints, a facial image and travel details, and each registration remains valid for three years.
• The system applies to visitors from more than 50 countries, including the UK, US, Canada and Turkey, while EU citizens continue to travel as before.
• Officials say the system is designed to spot overstays and reduce identity fraud, and travel and tourism groups caution that initial delays could discourage some visitors.
• A separate paid pre‑travel authorization called ETIAS is planned for late 2026 for visa‑exempt travelers.