Europe's new border check, the Entry/Exit System
If you travel to Europe on a short-stay visa, your passport no longer gets stamped. Since 10 April 2026, the Entry/Exit System records you digitally instead.
What changed
The rollout started in October 2025 and the system has been fully running at all external Schengen borders since 10 April 2026. The first time you enter on a short stay, border officers take your fingerprints and a photo of your face and link them to your passport. After that, each entry and exit is logged automatically.
Who it applies to
People from outside the EU coming for short stays, which includes Indian business travellers, tourists and family visitors. It does not apply if you already hold a residence permit from a Schengen country.
What it means in practice
- Your 90 days are counted exactly. The system calculates how many days you have used in the last 180. Overstaying by even a day shows up.
- The first crossing takes longer. Allow extra time at the airport, especially in busy periods.
- Your visa still matters. EES is a record of your crossings, not a permission. You still need a Schengen visa.
Next: ETIAS
ETIAS, a travel authorisation for visa-free visitors, is planned for the end of 2026. Indian nationals need a Schengen visa anyway, so ETIAS does not change much for you.
