Overview

• The Entry/Exit System begins on October 12, 2025 with a six‑month transition, targeting full operation by April 10, 2026.
• The system applies to all third‑country nationals on short stays and covers 29 countries: 25 EU members excluding Cyprus and Ireland, plus Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland.
• At a traveler’s first entry after launch, authorities will capture a facial image and four fingerprints, after which subsequent crossings should be quicker.
• During the transition, not all border points will collect biometrics and passports will continue to be stamped.
• Ukrainian authorities warn of longer processing at EU borders and advise adding 1–2 hours to travel plans; a biometric passport is not required but enables faster automated processing.