Coming to Italy! After numerous deadline delays and rescheduling, the EU’s new biometric passport checks system is set to be launched at Milan Malpensa and Rome Fiumicino this month.
This launch will mark the first step in a nationwide rollout due to be completed by April 2026.
The Entry and Exit System (EES) is one of two EU-wide travel changes due to come into effect between late 2025 (scheduled for October 12th) and 2026, with the other being the European Authorization and Information System (ETIAS).
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♦ What is the EES?
The EES is an enhanced biometric passport check designed to replace manual passport stamping.The system will only be used on the Schengen area’s external borders.
For non-EU travelers traveling for a short stay, when first entering the Schengen area, you will need to register with the EES by sharing your name, biometric date (fingerprints and facial scans) and the date and place of entry and exit.
⇒ More details here: EES Official site
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♦ What is the ETIAS?
The ETIAS is an online visa waiver required for tourists and other visitors in the EU/Schengen zone, similar to the ESTA in the US.
The current proposed fee is 20 euros. The application process is entirely online. Although the process should only take a few minutes, travelers are advised to apply 72 hours in advance in case of delays.
⇒ More details here: ETIAS Official site
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Both the EES and the ETIAS are primarily digitized enforcement of the EU’s “90-day rule” which limits visitors to stays of 90 days within a 180 day period.
For more details and up-to-date information, please refer to the official websites.
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