The Entry/Exit System (EES) of the European Union (EU) is making strides in implementation as major airports roll it out. Amid the transition, travel operators have voiced their operational concerns, while officials call for similar digital travel reforms.
EES: A Major Border System Shift
Specifically, the EES replaces manual passport stamping for non-EU travelers, recording biometric and biographic data during each border crossing. Consequently, authorities gain clearer insight into overstays and identity risks.
The system captures facial images and fingerprints. In addition, it also logs entry and exit dates with automated accuracy. Furthermore, it supports the 90/180-day stay calculation for non-EU visitors.
Notably, the EU plans full EES operation in April 2026. However, early deployments show the transition already affecting airports and operators.
Palma de Mallorca Activates EES
Palma de Mallorca Airport began EES operations on November 19, 2025, with the launch effectively covering all non-EU travelers. Correspondingly, the airport added biometric kiosks, facial-capture stations, and automated lanes. As a result, Spain now continues its national rollout across major airports.
Overall, officials have noted rising traveler volumes. In 2024, Spain recorded 105.6 million international air passenger arrivals. Therefore, the new system aims to record the stream of data while improving security.
Initially, airport workers reported initial flow adjustments. Even so, early data suggests faster processing for enrolled travelers. The Spanish Ministry of Interior has confirmed that most passengers completed biometric steps within two minutes.
EES Rolled Out at Zurich Airport
Likewise, Zurich Airport also activated EES functions. Notably, it partnered with tech firm Secunet to integrate facial-image towers and updated e-gates. Switzerland, though not an EU member, applies Schengen border rules. Consequently, its implementation aligns with EU standards.
Airport officials said the system reduces manual document checks. Furthermore, local authorities confirmed strong reliability during the first deployment week.
EU Border Registration at Budapest
Meanwhile, Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport introduced the EES on November 18, 2025. The system now handles non-EU passengers entering or leaving Hungary. Additionally, the airport upgraded booths, signage, and traveler-flow layouts.
All in all, Hungary recorded over 17.6 million airport passengers in 2024. Therefore, officials expect the EES to streamline future traffic growth. So far, early observations have shown increased staff engagement at biometric registration points. Even so, authorities have reported stable wait times.
Coach Operators Warn of Constraints
The EES is already affecting the road-transport sector. In fact, one UK coach operator, Jason Edwards Travel, reduced its continental program by nearly 50 percent. Specifically, the company cited strict enforcement of the 90/180-day rule for drivers. As a result, scheduling flexibility has dropped.
Moreover, industry groups argue that professional drivers deserve an exemption. They stress that drivers do not remain in the EU for extended stays. Instead, they cross frequently while transporting travelers. However, the EES records each entry and exit precisely. This creates compliance complexity.
“European drivers are a standalone breed with experience and knowledge, so we only have a small number of drivers that we’re comfortable to send,” remarked Jason Edwards, the travel operator’s managing director.
“We’ve reduced our program by a significant amount and we’re only a small business, so imagine the damage that will ripple through the economy of Europe,” he added.
Additionally, analysts warn that reduced coach availability may affect tourism in smaller EU regions. All in all, these areas rely heavily on group travel during peak months.
The Digital Travel Application Law
Notably, the EES rollout aligns with another major reform. The Council of the European Union recently agreed on a common position for a new digital travel application law. Specifically, the proposal enables travelers to submit data through a mobile platform before arrival. Consequently, border checks could become more predictable.
Furthermore, the app will interface directly with the EES. It will also verify document authenticity using secure mobile functions. Therefore, authorities expect quicker screening and fewer errors.
Lawmakers argue that early data submission improves border readiness. Moreover, digital filings reduce pressure on airport kiosks. EU negotiators will next refine the proposal with the European Parliament.
If adopted, the app could support millions of travelers each year. With millions of external border crossings, a digital pre-check tool could significantly reduce workload.
What the Changes Mean for Travelers
Travelers will face new steps, including biometric enrollment. However, they should experience faster automated processing on repeat visits. Hence, travelers who rely on frequent short stays must watch the 90/180-day rule closely. Correspondingly, the EES calculates this automatically, leaving little margin for error.
In time, airports expect rising passenger awareness to shorten learning curves. Nevertheless, clear signage and staff guidance remain essential. Additionally, pre-travel digital submissions will reduce bottlenecks once the proposed law passes.
EES Challenges and Risks
Despite progress, several challenges persist. First, passenger surges may stress systems before full EES optimization. Second, privacy advocates continue urging stronger biometric data safeguards. Third, operators face compliance burdens that could alter travel patterns.
Furthermore, infrastructure upgrades vary across countries. As such, this uneven progress may cause inconsistent traveler experiences. Even so, officials maintain that full readiness will improve alignment.
A Rapidly Evolving Border Landscape
More airports and land crossings will activate the EES throughout 2026. Meanwhile, the EU’s digital travel application continues moving through legislative channels. Together, both systems will define Europe’s next-generation border framework.
Overall, travelers should expect more automation, fewer manual checks, and stricter compliance. Correspondingly, operators will adapt scheduling and staffing to meet the new structure. Ultimately, the EU aims to balance efficiency with security while managing a smooth transition.
Conclusion
The EES rollout marks a significant transformation for European border control. Palma de Mallorca, Zurich, and Budapest airports demonstrate the system’s expanding footprint.
Simultaneously, coach operators and lawmakers highlight critical operational and policy implications. As the EU advances both EES and digital travel legislation, the coming year will shape how millions of passengers experience Europe’s borders.
Photo by Nino Steffen on Unsplash
