Switzerland Joins France, Italy, Austria, Poland, Malta, and Others in Changing Travel Dynamics of Europe with New Digital Border System: Everything Travelers Need to Know

Published on December 23, 2025

Switzerland, along with France, Italy, Austria, Poland, Malta, and others, is reshaping European travel by implementing digital border systems, enhancing security, and streamlining border processes for smoother traveler experiences. These innovative systems, such as the Entry/Exit System (EES) and the upcoming ETIAS, are set to transform how millions of travelers cross borders. By requiring biometric data like facial scans and fingerprints, these countries aim to boost security while reducing wait times at major hubs. This digital shift is not only modernizing travel logistics but also making the continent more accessible, efficient, and safe for visitors. In this article, we’ll explore everything travelers need to know about how these nations are changing the travel dynamics in Europe.

Switzerland: Leading the Way in Digital Border Innovation

Switzerland, as part of the Schengen Area, has adopted the Entry/Exit System (EES), which went live in October 2025. The system requires non-EU travelers to provide biometric data, including facial scans and fingerprints, at major border points. Swiss airports like Zurich have seen an influx of travelers facing longer wait times, with queues stretching up to 3 hours. While the biometric collection phase is underway, the system will be fully implemented by April 2026. Switzerland is working closely with its Schengen neighbors to ensure smooth integration, making it a key player in Europe’s digital border transformation.

France: Navigating the New Era of Border Control

France is at the forefront of the Entry/Exit System (EES) rollout, requiring biometric screening at airports such as Charles de Gaulle. This system has led to significant delays, with travelers experiencing waits of over 3 hours during busy travel periods. Non-EU nationals are now required to submit facial images and fingerprints upon entry, streamlining border security. The system is expected to be fully operational by 2026, with France also preparing for the ETIAS system. ETIAS, scheduled for a 2026 launch, will require a €7 fee for visa-exempt travelers and add another layer of security to France’s borders.

Italy: Biometric Borders and New Travel Taxes

Italy’s Entry/Exit System (EES) became active in October 2025, enforcing biometric data collection for non-EU nationals. Airports like Fiumicino and Malpensa now require travelers to undergo facial and fingerprint scans, contributing to extended wait times, particularly during peak seasons. The EES will be fully implemented across all border points by April 2026. Additionally, Italy is addressing tourism issues with new regulations, such as banning short-term rental “key boxes” in Milan starting in 2026. Italy’s combination of digital border systems and tourism regulations signals a new era of travel control.

Austria: Smooth Borders with a Digital Edge

Austria, like its Schengen counterparts, is integrating the Entry/Exit System (EES) to strengthen border security. Biometric scanning of non-EU nationals at key border points started in October 2025, causing some disruptions at major airports. With the full implementation expected by April 2026, Austria is making strides in managing digital border entry while also preparing for the ETIAS system, slated for launch in late 2026. Travelers entering Austria will need to obtain pre-travel authorization, enhancing security and ensuring smoother processing at entry points.

Poland: Navigating Border Upgrades with New Technology

Poland’s adoption of the Entry/Exit System (EES) in October 2025 has streamlined border control by requiring biometric scanning at airports like Warsaw Chopin. While there have been reports of longer wait times, the system is expected to be fully operational by April 2026. Poland is also preparing for the ETIAS system, which will affect visa-exempt travelers starting in late 2026. With the introduction of these digital systems, Poland is poised to improve border security and manage tourism more effectively.

Malta: Digital Borders and Seamless Travel Experience

Malta, as a Schengen member, introduced the Entry/Exit System (EES) in October 2025. This system requires non-EU travelers to undergo biometric screening, including facial and fingerprint scans. While there have been some delays at Malta International Airport, the authorities are working to streamline the process for smoother travel. By 2026, the EES will be fully operational, and Malta will also implement the ETIAS system, which will require online travel authorizations for visa-exempt travelers. Malta’s digital border system will enhance security while improving traveler experience.

Summary of Key Updates for Travelers

Switzerland, along with France, Italy, Austria, Poland, Malta, and others, is reshaping European travel by implementing digital border systems, enhancing security, and streamlining border processes for smoother traveler experiences.

Conclusion

Switzerland, France, Italy, Austria, Poland, Malta, and other European nations are collectively driving a significant transformation in travel dynamics by embracing the digital border system. This shift not only strengthens security but also enhances the overall travel experience, making border crossings more efficient and seamless for millions of travelers. As these systems become fully operational by 2026, they will continue to shape how travelers interact with Europe’s borders, ensuring a safer, faster, and more convenient journey. Travelers can look forward to smoother experiences and improved efficiency as these digital systems take full effect across the continent.