Travel safely

RULES FOR ENTERING THE SCHENGEN AREA

This information dates from 2025 and is provided for informational purposes only; we cannot guarantee its accuracy.
• Starting 12 October 2025, entry into the Schengen area is managed by the Entry/Exit System (EES), an automated IT system that records non-EU nationals whenever they cross the external borders of participating European countries. The EES applies to non-EU nationals traveling to an EES country for a short stay of up to 90 days in any 180-day period.
• Until now, this system was not operational at every border crossing; from 10 April 2026 it will be operational at all border crossings.
• This means checks at border crossings will be carried out automatically by the digital system.

For this reason, passengers should know that:
1. Biometric registration (EES)

• On entering the EU, you will:
o provide your fingerprints
o have your photo taken
• This is done only the first time and the information is stored in the system

2. The 90/180-day rule
• You may stay in the Schengen area for a maximum of 90 days in a 180-day period
• If you exceed this limit, you may:
o be fined
o be refused entry
o be barred from entering the EU in the future

2. Valid passport
• The passport must have at least 3 months of validity before it expires

3. Longer waits at the border
Longer delays are expected, especially at first
Checks may take longer than usual

For more information, visit the EU website: https://travel-europe.europa.eu/en/ees