EU Entry/Exit System rollout expanded, with fresh warnings about border delays
- Thor
- Jan 12
- 2 min read
The EU Entry/Exit System is being introduced in phases at Schengen external borders, and the latest expansion means more travelers will experience the new biometric process this winter. If you are entering the Schengen Area from a non-Schengen country, plan for longer queues at busy airports, ports, and international rail terminals until staff and passengers adjust.
What changed in the EU Entry/Exit System rollout
The EU Entry/Exit System started phased operations on 12 October 2025 and is being gradually introduced across border crossing points. EU guidance indicates that the progressive implementation runs until 9 April 2026, with full operation from 10 April 2026.
In the most recent step, travel reporting indicates the EU Entry/Exit System rollout expanded again on 9 January 2026, increasing the share of eligible border crossings processing travelers via the system (with travel and airport groups warning this can increase delays during peak arrival banks).
EU Entry/Exit System checks can add time at the border
If you are a non-EU national covered by the EU Entry/Exit System, you may be asked to:
Scan your passport
Provide a facial image
Provide fingerprints (children under 12 are generally fingerprint-exempt)
The first time you register biometrics tends to take the longest. After that, the process should become faster, but early-stage rollouts often create bottlenecks when passenger volumes spike.
Why this matters for travelers
Allow more time on arrival and departure. Passport control can become the choke point, which can also cascade into missed onward trains or tight domestic connections.
Expect variability by airport or port. Some border points will be more mature in their setup, while others may still be training staff and optimizing kiosk placement.
Your 90/180 compliance becomes more visible. The EU Entry/Exit System is designed to track entries and exits more precisely, replacing manual stamping for covered travelers.
Practical steps to reduce EU Entry/Exit System delays
Arrive earlier than normal for flights and international rail services that involve border control.
Keep your passport accessible and confirm it is valid and in good condition.
Follow the kiosk and queue instructions closely and do biometrics as soon as directed.
Avoid tight connections on travel days where you cross a Schengen external border.
Related reading on GlobalTravelsInfo
If you want more context, start with the visa and entry rules hub and the Schengen planning basics. To understand what comes next after the EU Entry/Exit System rollout, see the ETIAS Europe overview. For broader trip planning, browse the travel information section.
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