From October 12, 2025, a significant transformation in border control will be implemented in 29 Zona Schengen countries. The traditional stamp on foreign tourists’ passports will be replaced by Sistema of Entrada and Saída (EES), an advanced electronic mechanism. Esta change aims to modernize and speed up traveler registration, using biometric data such as fingerprints and facial recognition for all entries and exits.
The initiative, which will gradually extend until April 9, 2026, is primarily focused on improving security and efficiency at the European bloc’s entry points. Além by reducing queues and optimizing processes, the EES will strengthen the fight against irregular immigration, providing more precise control over the stay of foreigners. Viajantes from visa-exempt nations, such as Brasil, who visit Europa for up to 90 days in each 180-day period, will be directly impacted by this new rule.
Reino Unido, as it is not part of the Schengen space, will remain with its own immigration procedures. Contudo, the EES is the first step towards a broader reformulation, serving as the foundation for the Sistema Europeu of Informação and Autorização of
[[_0]
The modernization of entry control at Europa
The Sistema of Entrada and Saída (EES) represents a fundamental technological advance in European migration management. From October 2025, traveler data will be stored in a centralized database, including name, passport number, fingerprints and facial photographs. Esse unified registry will allow detailed monitoring of entry and exit movements, facilitating the identification of people who exceed the authorized period of stay.
Comissão Europeia emphasizes that this digital approach not only optimizes inspection, but also contributes to the prevention of document fraud and protection against security threats. The full adoption of the EES by member countries will occur progressively, with completion expected by April 2026. Durante the transition, some border points will still be able to operate with mixed methods, but the guideline is total digitalization.
The end of the era of physical stamps for travelers
For many travelers, the stamp in their passport transcends mere bureaucratic formality, becoming an emotional record of their journeys and discoveries around the world. The replacement of this practice by the EES marks the end of a tradition, transforming the passport into an essentially functional document. Colecionadores and travel enthusiasts mourn the loss of this tangible element of their memories.
Despite the nostalgia, the transition to the digital system is seen as an inevitable step in the search for greater efficiency and security. Enquanto the adaptation period allows some stamps to still be applied in specific locations, the expectation is that, in 2026, all records will be electronic. Paralelamente, questions about the privacy of biometric data stored in a centralized system have been raised by activists, although European authorities ensure strict protection protocols.
Details of the implementation of the EES system in 2025
The operationalization of the EES will involve the collection of biometric data from each traveler who does not need a visa to enter space Schengen. Este procedure, which will include fingerprint registration and a facial photograph, will be carried out at the first point of entry into Europa. The system was designed to be intuitive, with the aim of minimizing processing time at borders.
The digital record will allow authorities to quickly check whether the traveler has already exceeded the limit of 90 days of stay within a 180-day period. Esta automated verification eliminates the margin of error of manual controls and speeds up passage through checkpoints. Gradual implementation means that the initial experience may vary between different countries and airports, while the infrastructure adapts to new requirements.
The relationship between the EES and the future ETIAS
The EES is a crucial component of a broader strategy to improve the security and management of European borders. Ele establishes the database necessary for the operation of the Sistema Europeu of Informação and Autorização of
This authorization will cost 7 euros, equivalent to approximately R$43, for people between 18 and 70 years of age. The ETIAS will be valid for three years or until the holder’s passport expires, whichever comes first. The application process will be entirely online, with most approvals being granted within 96 hours of data submission.
For Brazilian citizens, the introduction of ETIAS represents an additional step in travel planning. Embora minors under 18 and over 70 are exempt from the fee, authorization will be mandatory for everyone. The system will cross-check the applicant’s data with several international databases, seeking to identify potential security risks even before the trip.
Adjustments at entry points and logistical challenges
The transition to EES will require significant adaptations at airports, ports and train stations throughout Europa. The installation of self-service machines to collect biometric data is one of the main measures, aiming to reduce dependence on direct interaction with immigration agents. Embora there are plans to allow pre-registration of information via applications, in-person validation of data will remain essential.
Airlines and other transportation companies have already expressed concerns about the possibility of delays during the initial phase of implementation. To mitigate these impacts, Comissão Europeia plans to launch extensive information campaigns, guiding travelers on new procedures and minimizing potential inconvenience. Países with a high volume of tourists, such as Portugal, França and Espanha, are already in the process of adapting their infrastructure at the main entry points.
Who will be affected by the new travel rules
The Sistema of Entrada and Além of the countries of União Europeia, Islândia, Noruega, Suíça and Reino Unido, in turn, will continue to operate with its own entry requirements.
Foreign citizens who have legal residence in any country of the União Europeia and holders of passports issued by the Vaticano are exempt from the mandatory biometric registration. Inicialmente, children under 12 will also not need to provide their biometric data, although this rule may be revised in the future. The EES’ coverage of several popular tourist destinations gives the measure global relevance for millions of travelers.
