European countries have begun implementing a new Entry/Exit System (EES) for travelers crossing their borders. The system is expected to be fully operational by April 10, 2026. This initiative primarily impacts non-EU nationals, including Canadians, who plan to stay in the Schengen area for short visits of up to 90 days within any 180-day period.

The Schengen area comprises most European Union nations, excluding Ireland and Cyprus, but including Norway, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, and Iceland. Notably, the United Kingdom is not part of this system and has its own Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), which has been in effect since January and costs approximately $18.

The EES will replace the traditional manual stamping of passports at border crossings. For the first six months of its implementation, border officers will continue to stamp passports while also registering entries and exits digitally. If technical issues arise, countries may revert to manual stamping. Once fully operational, the EES will rely solely on digital processes. This system will also monitor overstays and entry denials.

According to the Canadian government, each country determines its own entry and exit requirements, and Canada cannot intervene if travelers do not meet these criteria. Non-EU travelers with e-passports can utilize self-service kiosks to register upon crossing the border. They will then proceed to a passport control officer, who will have access to their information and may ask additional questions before granting or denying entry.

Most Canadians possess e-passports, which have been issued since 2013 and are valid for ten years. The EES will collect biometric data, including fingerprints and facial images, at the point of entry, storing this information for three years.

The European Union has stated that the automation of border checks will reduce wait times and provide accurate information regarding the maximum duration of authorized stays. This system aims to enhance the identification of individuals who overstay their visas or use fraudulent passports.

There is no cost associated with using the EES. However, another upcoming system, the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS), will require Canadians and other non-EU nationals to apply online for a travel permit to enter Europe. The fee for ETIAS has been set at 20 euros (about $32), significantly higher than the previously announced price of 7 euros. ETIAS is expected to begin operations in late 2026, although it has faced multiple delays since its initial announcement, which was made in 2021. Like the EES, it will take time to become fully operational.