Kazakh FM sheds light on new Schengen regulations

Kazakhstan’s foreign ministry has warned citizens about the launch of the automated Entry-Exit System (EES) in Schengen Area countries.

It informed its citizens of the new system, which was launched on April 10, 2026, Caliber.Az reports citing Orda.kz.

The EES is already fully operational in 29 Schengen countries and replaces traditional passport stamps with a digital record of crossings at external borders. It was introduced gradually, beginning on October 12, 2025, after which it was rolled out in stages across the region.

The new rules apply to citizens of non-EU countries, including Azerbaijani and Kazakh nationals. Upon their first entry into the Schengen Area, travellers will have their passport details and biometric data collected, while the date and place of entry and exit will also be recorded. Fingerprints will not be taken from children under the age of 12. The data will be stored for up to three years in line with personal data protection requirements.

“In the event of refusing to provide biometric data, entry into the Schengen Area will be prohibited. During the initial phase of the system’s operation, border control processing times may increase, especially at the first point of entry. In this regard, we recommend that citizens travelling in transit allow additional time for flight connections,” foreign ministry spokesperson Yerlan Zhetybayev said during a briefing in Astana.

To speed up the process, the EU has developed the “Travel to Europe” mobile application, where travellers can upload passport information and a photo in advance, though not earlier than 72 hours before arrival. However, the app does not replace border control procedures themselves.

For subsequent trips, crossing the border is expected to become easier, as travellers may be identified through facial recognition. However, anyone refusing to provide biometric data will be denied entry into the Schengen Area.

By Nazrin Sadigova