The EU has recognised that a “big bang” approach to implementation of the EES system would probably result in significant issues and delays on the implementation date. Instead, they have provided for a six-month implementation period from 12^th October 2025 to 9^th April 2026, to allow member states to bring in the new system in a measured way. However, if a border crossing implements EES, they are required to apply it to all passengers by December 2025. 10% of frontier posts are required to implement at least partially the EES system on 12^thOctober, rising to 50% by 1^st January 2026. Full implementation at all frontier points is required by 9^th April 2026 and it is only when that full implementation has been achieved that passports will stop being stamped.

This is ‘two-way’ process as travellers have to both register their entry into the EU and also their departure so that the number of days spent in the EU can be monitored. Those who are not EU residents may only spend a total of 90 days in the EU (which can be in several countries) in each 180-day rolling period.

The EU has now announced that the Deadline of 9 April 2026 has been confirmed and this means that all non-EU travellers into the Schengen area, unless they are exempt as dual nationals or EU residents, will need to go through the EES process.