Who Does It Apply To?
The EES applies to non-EU nationals travelling to European countries using the system for a short stay (up to 90 days within a 180-day period), whether or not they need a visa. Refusals of entry are also recorded.
European countries using the EES:
Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland.
Cyprus and Ireland will continue to stamp passports manually.
Benefits
Modernises passport control to reduce wait times
Automatically registers overstays
Provides travellers with precise information on their remaining days (via an online tool)
Enables automated border checks for biometric passports
Enhances border security
Privacy
All data is collected and stored in full compliance with EU data protection rules. Learn more: travel-europe.europa.eu
National Facilitation Programmes
Some Member States may introduce programmes for frequent travellers, offering easier border crossings.
Exemptions
The EES does not apply to:
EU/Schengen nationals, Cyprus, and Ireland
Non-EU nationals holding residence permits or cards linked to EU citizens
Non-EU nationals on intra-corporate transfers, research, studies, volunteering, exchanges, au-pairing
Holders of long-stay visas or residence permits
Nationals of Andorra, Monaco, San Marino, Vatican City/Holy See
Exempt travellers (heads of state, border workers, etc.)
Local border traffic permit holders
Crew of international passenger/goods trains
Full details: travel-europe.europa.eu