EU travel rules to change from April 10

Travel to Europe is set to change from April 10, 2026, as the European Union rolls out its fully digital Entry/Exit System (EES) across 29 countries. The system will replace passport stamping with biometric registration for non-EU travellers, with authorities warning of longer wait times at airports during the initial phase.

 

Under the new system, travellers entering the EU for short stays of up to 90 days will have their entries and exits recorded digitally. The system will capture biometric data, including facial images and fingerprints, along with passport details. 

 

The EES applies to all non-EU and non-Schengen nationals, including visa-free travellers and those visiting for tourism or business. However, Ireland and Cyprus will continue manual checks and are not part of the system.