Europe’s Borders Turn Digital

Europe has embarked on a new era of border management with the launch of the Entry/Exit System (EES), a state-of-the-art digital platform that commenced operations on October 12, 2025. The EES is designed to digitally record the entry and exit data of non-EU nationals visiting 29 European countries for short stays. In just a few days following its implementation, the system has successfully registered over 300,000 movements, signaling a significant enhancement in border security and management efficiency.

The EES, managed by eu-LISA—the European Union Agency for the Operational Management of Large-Scale IT Systems in the area of Freedom, Security, and Justice—aims to fully integrate by April 10, 2026. This innovative system captures critical data, including passport information, biometrics (facial images and fingerprints), and the specifics of each entry and exit, thereby streamlining border checks and improving the accuracy of identity verifications. Furthermore, the system plays a crucial role in identifying visa overstayers and preventing identity fraud, significantly bolstering the security framework within the Schengen area.

Officials, including Catherine De Bolle, Executive Director of Europol, and Magnus Brunner, EU Commissioner for Internal Affairs, have highlighted the system’s strategic importance. The EES not only enhances the operational capabilities of border management but also supports law enforcement in preventing, detecting, and investigating serious crimes more effectively. With enhanced data access, Europol can now perform targeted searches to identify and trace individuals involved in criminal activities, thereby reinforcing internal security and protecting the freedoms inherent within the EU. The system’s compliance with strict EU data protection standards ensures that privacy and data security are not compromised, maintaining a balance between security and individual rights.