Big Changes at the EU Border: What You Need to Know About the EES

We want to keep you up to date with an important change that may affect your future travel plans to Europe. From the 12th of October 2025, the European Union introduced the new Entry/Exit System (EES) at its external borders.

Rest assured that we are here to guide you through these changes and make your travel experience as smooth as possible when you book a holiday with us.

Below is a short guide to what it’s all about and what to expect.

At Completely Croatia, we specialise in crafting tailor-made holidays, carefully selecting small boutique hotels and villas that capture the authentic character of each destination. Whether you’re after a city break, an island-hopping adventure, or a cultural tour, we can design the perfect escape to suit you.

🌍 What is EES?

The EU Entry/Exit System (EES) is a new automated IT system designed to replace the manual passport stamping process for travellers from outside the EU/Schengen Area (including UK passport holders).

Every time you cross an EU external border, your entry and exit will be recorded electronically. The system will store information such as:

• Name, nationality, and passport details
• Date and place of entry/exit
• A facial image and four fingerprints

This applies to all non-EU citizens travelling to the Schengen Area for short stays (up to 90 days within any 180-day period).

🛫 Why is EES Being Introduced?

The new system is designed to:

• Strengthen border security by keeping accurate records of who enters and leaves the EU
• Make travel smoother by eventually speeding up border checks with automated gates
• Ensure fairness by automatically calculating how many days you’ve spent in the EU, helping travellers avoid overstaying their visa-free allowance

👩‍💻 What Does This Mean for You?

When the system goes live, here’s what you can expect at EU border crossings:

• You will need to register your biometric data (photo and fingerprints) the first time you enter the EU after the system launches. This will be done at the border.
• Border checks may take slightly longer at first as travellers adjust to the new process.
• Once registered, future crossings should be quicker as your details will already be stored in the system.
• Your passport will no longer be stamped, as your entry and exit will be logged digitally.

As EES is being implemented through a phased rollout, the experience may vary during the first six months.

Travellers do not need to take any action prior to arriving at the border, and there is no cost for EES registration.

✈️ Our Advice

• You don’t need to prepare anything in advance; everything will take place at the border.
• Allow extra time at airports, ferry ports, or land crossings, particularly in the first few weeks after the system launches.
• Have your passport ready and follow guidance from border staff.
• Remember that the 90/180-day rule for EU stays still applies — but it will now be tracked automatically.

Conclusion

The introduction of the EES marks a significant step towards a more secure and efficient border system across Europe. While there may be minor delays during the initial rollout, the long-term goal is to make travel smoother and more streamlined for everyone.