EU activates full digital border control system across Schengen area

April 10 marks a significant milestone in European border security as the Entry/Exit System (EES) becomes fully operational across all Schengen countries.

The EES is an advanced technological system that will digitally record the entries and exits of non-EU nationals travelling to 29 European countries for short stays. It collects biographical and biometric data, as well as other travel information, replacing the previous system of passport stamping. The system is designed to provide reliable data on border crossings, systematically detecting overstayers as well as cases of document and identity fraud.

The system began its progressive roll-out in October 2025. Since its introduction, more than 52 million entries and exits have been registered, along with over 27,000 refusals of entry, including nearly 700 individuals identified as posing a security threat to the Union. With the EES now functioning at full capacity, registering a traveller takes on average around 70 seconds.

As of today, the system has been deployed across all EU external border crossing points. The European Commission said it remains in close contact with member states regarding implementation.

Executive Vice-President for Technological Sovereignty, Security and Democracy Henna Virkkunen said: “The Entry/Exit System marks a major step forward in strengthening the security of the EU and its citizens. It equips our external borders with modern, interoperable and highly advanced technological systems, reflecting Europe's commitment to ensuring strong protection of our external borders and overall security. It will enable authorities to identify risks in real time, tackle overstays more effectively and reinforce trust in the Schengen area.”

EU Commissioner for Internal Affairs and Migration Magnus Brunner said: “The Entry/Exit System marks a major milestone in modernising and strengthening the security of Europe's external borders. With the EES, we are taking control of who enters and leaves the EU, when and where. The security of EU citizens remains our highest priority, and the EES delivers on this commitment.”

By Vafa Guliyeva