A Guide on Venturing to Germany: Clarifying Frequent Inquiries Regarding EES and ETIAS
New Digital Travel System for Schengen Area: EES and ETIAS
Starting October 12, 2025, the Entry/Exit System (EES) will begin a phased implementation across 29 European countries, marking a significant step towards digitising travel formalities in the Schengen Area. The system, which will be fully operational by April 10, 2026, aims to digitally record the entry and exit data and biometrics of short-stay non-EU nationals at EU external borders [1][2][3][4][5].
During the phased rollout, passport stamping will continue for some travelers. It's important to note that visa-holders are not required to complete EES pre-registration, with the exception of those who hold the short-stay Schengen visa.
The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) is scheduled for launch only after the full implementation of EES, now anticipated towards the last quarter of 2026. ETIAS will require visa-exempt non-EU nationals to obtain travel authorization before arriving in the Schengen Area, similar to pre-travel electronic systems used by countries like the USA and Canada [1][2][4].
Regarding fees, EES itself does not typically involve a traveler fee as it is a border management system digitizing entry/exit formalities. ETIAS is expected to charge a fee (around €7) for processing the travel authorization for eligible travelers [1][2][4].
Travelers should check with national border authorities for specific procedures during implementation, as some border crossings may phase in EES capabilities at different times. The full launch and practical details of ETIAS remain subject to final approval by the European Parliament [1][2][4][5].
Here's a summary of key dates and facts:
| System | Start Date | Full Implementation | Purpose | Fees | |--------|------------|---------------------|---------|------| | EES | October 12, 2025 (phased) | April 10, 2026 | Digitally record entry/exit data and biometrics of short-stay non-EU nationals at EU external borders | No direct traveler fee | | ETIAS | Q4 2026 (expected) | N/A | Advance travel authorization for visa-exempt third-country nationals | Approx. €7 processing fee |
Pre-registration for EES
Pre-registration for EES involves filling out a questionnaire with personal details, providing fingerprints, and a facial scan. However, it's important to note that there is currently no way to complete EES pre-registration before arriving at the airport/port/station.
ETIAS Application
ETIAS will require travelers to go online in advance of their trip, fill in a form, and pay a €7 fee for the travel authorization. Each country will choose which ports/airports/stations to enforce EES, with a certain percentage of entry points required to use the system.
It's crucial to remember that any website claiming to process ETIAS applications is a scam. The ETIAS website is not yet up and running, and any website offering to complete EES for a fee is also a scam.
Exemptions
Non-EU citizens who are residents of an EU country with a long-stay visa or a residency permit are not covered by EES and do not have to complete EES pre-registration or provide biometrics. Similarly, non-EU citizens who live in an EU, EEA, or Schengen zone with a visa or residency permit are exempt from ETIAS.
Citizens of countries such as the UK, USA, Canada, and Australia who benefit from up to 90 days of visa-free travel into the EU/Schengen zone are not exempt from EES.
Phased Introduction
Both EES and ETIAS will be introduced in a phased manner. EES will be introduced over six months, with full implementation expected within six months (by April 2026). ETIAS will also be rolled out in a phased introduction over six months.
Important Considerations
Travelers should be aware that ports may pause EES checks in the event of long queues. Some airports and ports are already testing their EES systems. It's also important to note that holding property in an EU country does not, in itself, give you any specific rights in the country where your property is located.
[1] European Commission - Entry/Exit System (EES)
[2] European Commission - European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS)
[3] European Parliament - Entry/Exit System (EES)
[4] European Parliament - European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS)
[5] European Parliament - Questions to the Commission - EES and ETIAS
The Entry/Exit System (EES) will digitally record the entry and exit data of travelers in the Schengen Area, potentially changing the lifestyle of short-stay non-EU nationals. The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) will require visa-exempt non-EU nationals to obtain travel authorization before arriving in the Schengen Area, affecting their travel plans.
