EU Sets October 2025 Launch for Entry/Exit System, Postpones ETIAS to 2026

The European Union has announced a significant update for travelers. On October 12, 2025, the EU will launch its new Entry/Exit System (EES). This system will digitally monitor non-EU travelers entering and leaving the Schengen Area. However, the rollout of the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) has been delayed until late 2026.

Travelers planning to visit Europe should take note of this important date. The EES aims to transform how non-EU visitors are processed at Europe’s borders. After facing delays and technical issues, EU authorities are ready to implement this system to enhance border management and security.

Entry/Exit System (EES)

The Entry/Exit System (EES) is an automated IT solution designed to register non-EU nationals traveling to or from the Schengen Area for short stays. This system replaces manual passport stamping with digital records that include:

• Traveler Information: Name and passport details
• Biometric Data: Fingerprints and facial images
• Entry/Exit Data: Dates and locations of border crossings

The goal is to improve border security, identify overstayers, and expedite processing for legitimate travelers.

Official Launch Date: October 12, 2025

The European Commission has confirmed that the EES will officially launch on October 12, 2025, after overcoming various delays. However, the implementation will not be instantaneous.

How Will the EES Be Rolled Out?

The EES introduces in phases over 180 days:

• Initial Phase: A small percentage of border crossings will utilize the EES.
• Progressive Expansion: More border points will gradually adopt the new system.
• Full Deployment: By the end of the 180 days, all applicable border crossings will be covered.

The collection of biometric data will also increase during this period, although the specific start date for this phased rollout remains unclear. Travelers should stay updated.

What is ETIAS and When Will It Start?

The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) is a pre-screening travel authorization for visitors from visa-exempt countries. It functions similarly to the U.S. ESTA or Canada’s eTA. ETIAS will apply to non-EU nationals who do not require a visa to enter the Schengen Area, including citizens from the UK, US, Canada, Australia, and Japan.

Key Features of ETIAS:

• Required before traveling to Europe
• Simple online application process
• Valid for three years or until your passport expires
• Costs €7 for most travelers

New Timeline for ETIAS: Now Expected in Late 2026

Originally set for 2025, the ETIAS launch remains postponed to late 2026. This delay links to the EES, as ETIAS relies on EES data. The proposed ETIAS launch date still requires approval from the European Parliament.

ETIAS Fee Likely to Increase to €20

The ETIAS fee, initially set at €7, now expects to rise to approximately €20 due to increasing operational costs.

ETIAS Implementation Approach

Once ETIAS launches, there will be two important transition periods:

• Transitional Period (First 6 Months): Travelers can enter the EU without an ETIAS, if they meet other requirements.
• Grace Period (Next 6 Months): First-time travelers since the transitional period can enter without ETIAS, but repeat travelers must have an approved ETIAS authorization.

These periods aim to help travelers adjust and minimize confusion at airports during the initial rollout.

Final Thoughts

The EU is finally moving forward with its long-awaited border control systems. The EES will launch in October 2025, marking a significant change in travelers screening and monitoring at EU borders. ETIAS will follow in late 2026, adding an extra layer of pre-travel authorization for visa-free visitors.