If you are planning a trip to Europe in the coming months or years, you will increasingly come across two acronyms: EES and ETIAS. They are not visas in the traditional sense, but they will change how non-EU travellers enter Europe.
Understanding what they are, when they will start, and who they apply to is essential to avoid unpleasant surprises at the border and to plan your journey smoothly.
What Is EES (Entry/Exit System)?
The Entry/Exit System (EES) is a new automated border control system that will apply to travellers from non-EU countries who do not need a visa for short stays, as well as to those who travel with a short-stay Schengen visa.
EES will replace the current system of manual passport stamping.
Instead of stamps, the system will digitally record:
- Date and place of entry and exit
- Duration of stay
- Biometric data, including fingerprints and facial images
The main goal is to improve border security and accurately track overstays within the Schengen Area.
When will EES start?
According to the revised timeline published by the European institutions, EES is expected to become operational in 2026, with a progressive rollout rather than a single launch date across all borders.
This means travellers should expect longer border procedures at the beginning, especially at airports and major land crossings.
What Is ETIAS?
ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) is a pre-travel authorisation, similar in concept to the US ESTA or the UK ETA.
It will apply to travellers from visa-exempt countries, including:
- United Kingdom
- United States
- Canada
- Australia
- New Zealand
- Japan
- South Korea
- Many Latin American countries
ETIAS is not a visa, but an online authorisation linked to your passport.
What will ETIAS require?
To apply, travellers will need to:
- Complete an online form
- Provide passport details and basic personal information
- Answer security-related questions
- Pay a small fee (currently planned at €7 for adults)
Most applications are expected to be approved within minutes, though some may take longer.
Once approved, ETIAS will be valid for three years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first, and allows multiple short stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
Revised Timeline: When Will ETIAS Start?
One of the most common sources of confusion is timing.
Based on the latest official updates:
- ETIAS will not start before EES
- ETIAS is expected to become operational several months after EES, allowing travellers and border authorities time to adapt
At present, ETIAS is expected no earlier than the beginning of 2026, depending on the final implementation of EES.
This means:
- You do not need ETIAS yet
- You should not apply through unofficial websites claiming ETIAS is already active
Which Countries Are Affected?
ETIAS and EES will apply to travel within the Schengen Area, which includes most EU countries and a few associated states.
Countries covered include:
- France, Italy, Spain, Germany, Portugal, Greece
- Netherlands, Belgium, Austria, Switzerland
- Nordic countries (except Ireland)
- Central and Eastern European Schengen states
Ireland is not part of the Schengen area, and ETIAS will not apply there. The UK has its own entry requirements.
What Does This Mean for Travellers?
For most international travellers, the impact will be procedural rather than restrictive.
You will still be able to:
- Travel freely within Schengen once admitted
- Stay up to 90 days in any 180-day period
- Enter for tourism, business or family visits
However, you should plan for:
- Extra time at border crossings, especially during the first months
- Pre-travel checks before booking flights
- Making sure your passport is biometric and valid for at least three months beyond your departure date
Practical Tips to Prepare
If you are planning a trip to Europe in 2026:
- Check official EU sources for updates close to departure
- Avoid third-party websites selling ETIAS services prematurely
- Make sure your passport details are correct and up to date
- Allow extra time at arrival airports, particularly if entering during peak season
Travel professionals, tour operators and frequent travellers should also factor these changes into itineraries, connection times and client communications.
Why Europe Is Introducing EES and ETIAS
The introduction of EES and ETIAS reflects a broader global trend toward digital border management.
The objectives are:
- Improved security
- Better monitoring of short stays
- Faster processing once systems are fully operational
- More reliable data across EU borders
While the transition phase may feel cumbersome, in the long term, these systems aim to make travel more efficient and transparent. ETIAS and EES are not reasons to postpone or avoid travel to Europe, but they are essential changes travellers should be aware of.
Being informed is the best way to travel confidently. As with many regulatory shifts, the key is timing, preparation and relying on official information rather than rumours.
If Europe is on your travel horizon, keep these systems in mind, but rest assured that for most visitors, the experience will remain as rich, varied and rewarding as ever.
