Greece Joins Spain, Portugal, France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Sweden, and Switzerland in Overhauling EU Border Security with the Revolutionary New Entry/Exit System, What Travellers Need to Know

Written By: Anweshan Acharya

Anweshan Acharya

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April 12, 2026 4:16 PM |

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The European Union’s implementation of the new Entry/Exit System (EES) across its Schengen area, which includes popular destinations such as Greece, Spain, and Portugal, is now in full swing. This modernized border control system is designed to enhance security and streamline entry and exit procedures for travelers. The EES will require biometric data collection, such as fingerprints and photos, for travelers arriving for short stays within the Schengen zone. UK travelers visiting these countries must be aware of the new process to ensure smooth entry into Europe.

With the rollout of the EES, the European Union aims to strengthen border security, reduce illegal migration, and automate traditional passport stamping practices. The new system also brings changes for UK nationals visiting Schengen countries, and it is crucial to understand these updates before traveling.

What is the Entry/Exit System (EES)?

The Entry/Exit System (EES) is a new digital border control initiative being implemented across all Schengen area countries. It requires travelers from outside the Schengen zone, including the UK, to register their biometric details when entering and exiting the region. For UK nationals traveling to countries like Greece, Spain, Portugal, France, and other Schengen states, this means biometric registration—such as fingerprints and a photo—will be taken when arriving in the region.

The EES will replace the old manual passport stamping system, marking a significant shift toward more efficient and secure border controls. It automates and digitizes the check-in process, making it easier for authorities to track entry and exit movements.

How Does EES Affect UK Travelers?

For UK travelers heading to Schengen countries, including Greece, Spain, and Portugal, there are several key points to keep in mind regarding the EES:

• No Pre-Travel Registration: Travelers will not need to register for the EES system before their departure. The registration occurs upon arrival at the border.
• Biometric Data Collection: On their first visit to a Schengen country, UK travelers will be required to have their fingerprints and a photograph taken. These biometric details will be registered in the system and used to verify their entry and exit movements.
• Registration on First Entry: On the first arrival, UK travelers will likely be directed to a special booth to provide their biometric information before proceeding to the immigration desk.
• Duration of Validity: The biometric data collected during entry into the Schengen area will remain valid for three years. After this period, travelers will be required to update their biometric details upon subsequent visits.

Key Points About the EES Registration Process

1. When You Arrive: On arrival in a Schengen country for the first time, travelers will go through the biometric registration process at the border. This process will involve scanning your fingerprints and taking a photo. Once this is done, travelers will proceed through the regular immigration checks.
2. Exit Procedures: While it is not always necessary to provide biometric data upon leaving the Schengen area, some travelers may be required to provide a fingerprint or a photograph when exiting the region.
3. Children and Biometric Registration: Children under the age of 11 will not have their fingerprints scanned but may still be asked to provide a photograph during the registration process.
4. Potential Delays at the Border: Travelers should be prepared for longer wait times as the EES system may take additional time to process passengers. Border officials may need more time to complete checks due to the added biometric registration.

Countries Impacted by EES: Greece, Spain, Portugal and Beyond

The new EES system affects all Schengen area countries, which include popular European destinations such as Greece, Spain, and Portugal. The full list of countries impacted by the EES rollout includes:

• Austria
• Belgium
• Bulgaria
• Croatia
• Czechia
• Denmark
• Estonia
• Finland
• France
• Germany
• Greece
• Hungary
• Iceland
• Italy
• Latvia
• Liechtenstein
• Lithuania
• Luxembourg
• Malta
• Netherlands
• Norway
• Poland
• Portugal
• Romania
• Slovakia
• Slovenia
• Spain
• Sweden
• Switzerland

Countries like the Republic of Ireland and Cyprus, which are not part of the Schengen area, will not require EES registration.

EES and the Future of European Border Security

The introduction of the EES is part of the EU’s broader efforts to enhance border security and combat illegal migration. By automating the entry and exit process, the system enables quicker processing times and ensures better tracking of travelers’ movements. The data gathered through biometric registration will help authorities keep a record of who is entering and leaving the Schengen area, reducing the risk of overstays and illegal immigration.

The implementation of the EES also aligns with the EU’s goal of modernizing border management. This initiative will lead to smoother processes for travelers and enhance security for both visitors and residents in the region.

What to Expect in the Coming Years: ETIAS and Beyond

The EES is just one part of a larger framework designed to modernize and secure European borders. Starting in autumn 2026, the EU plans to introduce the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), which will further affect UK travelers. ETIAS will require travelers from visa-exempt countries (like the UK) to apply for authorization before entering the Schengen area.

Though ETIAS is not yet operational, travelers can expect more information from EU officials in the coming years. Once introduced, UK travelers will need to apply for ETIAS authorization online before their trips to Schengen countries, provided they do not already hold a valid visa or residence permit.

What UK Nationals Need to Do

For UK nationals traveling to Schengen countries:

• No Action Needed for EES: Travelers do not need to take any action before arriving at the border in terms of registering for the EES. The registration will be done at the border on arrival.
• Documenting Exemptions: Some UK nationals may be exempt from the EES system. These travelers should present the required exempting documentation at the border upon arrival to avoid the registration process.
• Prepare for Border Delays: With the implementation of biometric registration, travelers may experience longer wait times at border control, especially during peak travel periods. Travelers should plan accordingly and allow for additional time at the border.

Conclusion: A New Era for European Border Security and Travel

The introduction of the Entry/Exit System (EES) across the Schengen area represents a significant shift in European border control and security practices. For travelers heading to countries like Greece, Spain, and Portugal, the biometric registration system will be an essential part of the entry process, and travelers should be prepared for the changes.

As the EU continues to implement advanced technologies in border management, travelers will see smoother and more secure processes. While the new system may take some time to adjust to, it promises to strengthen Europe’s borders and make travel more secure for everyone. Travelers to Schengen countries should stay informed about the developments of the EES and the upcoming ETIAS system to ensure they are ready for their trips to Europe.