EES & ETIAS Guide for Digital Nomads

The EU is introducing two changes that affect short stays in the Schengen Area: EES (a new digital entry/exit system with biometrics) and ETIAS (a travel authorisation for visa-exempt travellers). EES begins 12 Oct 2025 with a phased rollout; ETIAS is due in Q4 2026.

What is EES?

EES replaces manual passport stamps with a digital record of each entry and exit for non-EU travellers. It stores your basic travel document data plus biometrics (face photo and fingerprints) to help enforce the 90/180-day rule and speed up checks over time.

When does EES start?

EES starts on 12 October 2025 and is introduced gradually over six months at Schengen external borders (progressive rollout). Full coverage is expected by April 2026.

Who does EES apply to?

EES applies to non-EU/Schengen visitors entering for short stays (whether visa-exempt or holding a short-stay visa). EU/EEA citizens are not subject to EES checks.

What biometrics are collected?

At your first trip after EES goes live, border officers will take a face photo and scan fingerprints (children under 12 are exempt from fingerprinting). On later trips, your data is verified and the process is faster.

Summary of ETIAS

ETIAS is an online travel authorisation (not a visa) for visa-exempt travellers heading to 30 European countries. It is planned to start in the last quarter of 2026. Once approved, ETIAS is valid for three years or until your passport expires (whichever comes first).

ETIAS fee

The ETIAS application fee is €20, confirmed by the European Commission (up from the previously announced €7).

The 90/180 Rule—Made Simple

You can stay up to 90 days in any rolling 180-day period across the Schengen Area. To check your balance, use the official EU short-stay calculator; it’s the easiest way to avoid overstaying.

Quick examples

• If you stayed 60 days earlier in the last 180 days, you have 30 days left today.

• Entry and exit days count. Day 91 is an overstay.

What to Expect at the Border

• First EES trip: passport scan + face photo + fingerprints (if 12+).

• Later trips: your record is matched and verified; checks are usually faster.

• Plan a little extra time during the initial rollout months, especially at busy border points.

Digital Nomad Checklist

• Passport with comfortable validity (and a backup of key pages).

• Proof of plans (return/onward ticket, first accommodation).

• 90/180-day tracker: bookmark the EU calculator.

• If you’re visa-exempt, remember you’ll likely need ETIAS once it goes live.

FAQs

When will EES start?

12 October 2025, with a phased rollout across external borders.

Will passport stamping end right away?

Stamping is being replaced by EES records; during the gradual rollout, procedures can differ by border until full coverage is reached.

Do children give fingerprints?

Children under 12 do not give fingerprints; a face photo is still taken.

When does ETIAS start and how long is it valid?

ETIAS is due in late 2026 and is valid for three years or until your passport expires—whichever comes first. 

How much will ETIAS cost?

The fee is €20, per the European Commission. Migration and Home Affairs

How do I count my 90 days?

Use the EU short-stay calculator to plan multiple trips safely within the 90/180 rule.

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And as I always say, until the next post arrivederci folks :)