New European Entry/Exit System (EES)

Navigating the New EU Border Control: What You Need to Know About the Entry/Exit System (EES)

As international mobility continues to be central to talent strategy, keeping pace with regulatory shifts is paramount. The European Union has implemented a significant change to its external border control procedures with the introduction of the Entry/Exit System (EES).

The European Union has begun implementing the Entry/Exit System (EES), an automated digital border control system. This change affects all non-EU citizens traveling to the Schengen area for short stays, such as pre-assignment house hunting or orientation trips, or even for a long weekend.

What is the Entry/Exit System (EES)?

The EES is a new, unified, security-based, automated IT border control system across the Schengen Zone. Its primary purpose is to modernize external border management by electronically registering the entry and exit data of non-EU nationals, while automatically monitoring compliance with the 90-day short-stay rule within any 180-day period.

EES Implementation: Key Dates

The EES is not a future plan—it is now actively rolling out:

EU-Wide Rollout: The phased introduction of the EES across the external borders of the 29 participating Schengen countries began on October 12, 2025.
Budapest Airport (Hungary): The system’s gradual implementation at Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD) commenced on November 18, 2025.

Who Does the EES Affect?

The EES primarily impacts non-EU citizens traveling to EES countries for a short stay (up to 90 days within a 180-day period).

Key Takeaways for Mobility Teams:

Short-Stay Visitors: All non-EU passport holders entering the Schengen area for tourism, business meetings, or other short-term purposes will be registered.
Residence Permit Holders: While the EES monitors short-stay limits, non-EU nationals holding a valid long-term visa or residence permit still undergo the new control process at the border booths. Proactive preparation is key to avoiding delays.
No Change for EU Passport Holders: The EES does not introduce any new requirements for those who can move freely within Europe.

What You Need to Know for Your Trip

To ensure a smooth transit for relocating employees and business guests, advise them to take note of the following steps, particularly when departing from or arriving at Budapest Airport:

Allow Ample Time: Due to the new biometric data collection process, border control procedures will take longer. Passengers must factor in sufficient time before their flight.
Document Preparation: Passengers should have all required travel documents ready while waiting in line to expedite the process:
- Passport
- Boarding Pass
- Residence Permit (if applicable)
Biometric Data Collection: The next step involves providing biometric data. The system will capture a photo of the face and fingerprints.
Airport Flow: Budapest Airport is displaying boarding gate zones earlier than usual. Passengers should proceed immediately to the designated zone as soon as it appears on the screens to manage the flow efficiently.

As a dedicated Relocation Partner, we emphasize the importance of communicating these procedural changes to your workforce to maintain compliance and ensure a positive start to their assignments. We are here to provide end-to-end support, even as the global mobility landscape evolves.

Official EU Resources for Further Details:

For a comprehensive overview and the latest FAQs, please refer to the official European Union links:

General Information (EN): https://travel-europe.europa.eu/ees
Frequently Asked Questions (EN): https://travel-europe.europa.eu/en/ees/faq##

November 28, 2025