New Era in Traveling to Europe: EES System Took Effect on April 10

A new border system that closely concerns millions of people traveling to Europe has gone into effect. The Entry/Exit System (EES), developed by the European Union and under preparation for a long time, began to be implemented in the Schengen area as of April 10, 2026. With the system's activation, congestion occurred especially at airports, and many passengers had to wait in long queues.

Warnings issued by officials days in advance were reflected on the first day of the system. Especially at airports with high international flight density, border crossing times extended with the activation of biometric data processes. It was reported that some passengers experienced waiting times of up to 2 to 3 hours. This situation clearly demonstrated that a new era has begun for those traveling to Europe.

The EES system is considered one of the most important steps in the digitalization process at European borders. With the new application, the entry and exit information of non-EU passengers will be recorded entirely in a digital environment. Thus, it is aimed to eliminate the margin of error in manual passport control processes and increase border security.

One of the most important features of the system is its automatic calculation of the long-standing "90 days of stay within 180 days" rule. In this way, passengers exceeding their stay in the Schengen area will be instantly detected and reported to the relevant units. This process, previously tracked manually, has become entirely digital with the new system.

One of the most important innovations brought with EES is the biometric data requirement. Non-EU passengers entering the Schengen area will have to register their biometric data, such as fingerprints and facial photos, into the system along with their passports during their first entry. These procedures are carried out especially through kiosk devices installed at airports.

In the new system, passengers start their procedures by having their passports read by the devices. Then, fingerprint and facial recognition processes are performed. Additionally, passengers are asked some basic questions regarding their travel. Subjects such as accommodation information, purpose of travel, and financial sufficiency are recorded by the system to be evaluated in terms of border security.

There is an exception in the application for children under the age of 12. Fingerprints will not be taken from children in this age group. However, biometric data registration will remain mandatory for all other passengers.

It is stated that the collected data will be stored in the system for 3 years. This is seen as a significant advantage that will ensure that procedures proceed faster on passengers' subsequent travels. At the same time, security units will be able to quickly access past travel data.

Another striking change with the new system is the abolition of the practice of stamping passports. Since all entry-exit procedures will now be recorded digitally, no physical stamps will be placed on passports. This will eliminate issues such as passport pages becoming full, especially for frequent travelers.

Within the scope of the EES system, passengers do not need to make any application before travel. Furthermore, no additional fee is requested for the application. In this respect, the system differs from other digital applications planned to be activated in the coming periods.

The congestion experienced on the first day of the system showed that the transition process would take time. Especially since the duration of biometric data procedures is longer than traditional passport control, queues formed at many airports. Passengers' adaptation process to the system was also among the factors increasing this congestion.

In some airports, it was observed that the system has not yet been fully activated. It was reported that some points in cities like Milan and Lisbon did not start the application on the same day. This situation revealed that the EES system is being activated gradually across Europe.

In the statement made by the European Commission, it was mentioned that the system could be temporarily suspended during peak hours against possible congestion. It was stated that this flexible implementation could continue until September. The goal is to ensure a controlled transition to the new system without completely stopping passenger flow.

Here are the 29 countries where the "EES" system will be valid: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.

With the activation of the new system, a significant increase in border security is expected. The use of biometric data will make the use of fake identities and passports much more difficult. At the same time, thanks to the central data system, fast access to passengers' past travel information will be provided.

However, the system also has some disadvantages. Especially the congestion and long waiting times experienced in the initial stage stand out as the biggest problem for passengers. The fact that biometric data procedures take time and users are not yet accustomed to the system causes this process to prolong.

Difficulties that may be experienced in adapting to technology also draw attention. Especially for elderly passengers or people not accustomed to digital systems, the use of kiosk devices can sometimes be challenging. This situation can also extend the general processing time.

In line with all these developments, passengers traveling to Europe need to take some precautions. First and foremost, going to the airport earlier than usual is of great importance. Being at the airport at least 3 hours in advance for international flights can prevent possible delays.

Passengers preparing their passports and travel documents in advance allows them to complete kiosk procedures faster. Additionally, having details such as accommodation information and return plans ready helps in answering questions quickly.

Following instructions carefully during the biometric data process is also very important. Performing fingerprint and facial recognition procedures correctly ensures the smooth completion of the processes.

Another important issue to be considered in this process is communication. Due to congestion at airports, flight changes, and redirections, it is of great importance for passengers to stay connected constantly.

At this point, digital solutions stand out. Especially on overseas travels, fast and uninterrupted internet access allows passengers to manage the process more comfortably. eSIM technology offers great convenience by eliminating the need for a physical SIM card.

eSIMfo offers fast and practical internet solutions to its users during European travels. Thanks to eSIM packages activated within seconds via QR code, passengers can have internet access as soon as they land at the airport. This provides a great advantage, especially in moments of congestion.

Conclusion — Digital Era at European Borders

As a result, border crossings in Europe have entered a completely digital era with the EES system. This new system, while increasing security, has also initiated a new adaptation process for passengers. With correct preparation, time management, and technological solutions, it will be possible to go through this process more comfortably and smoothly.