2025/10/11
A New Era for Travelling to Europe Begins This Weekend
Planning a European getaway this year? Be prepared for a major change at the border. Starting 12 October 2025, the Schengen Entry/Exit System (EES) officially replaces the traditional passport stamping method for most travellers from outside the European Union. Each time you enter or leave a Schengen country, your journey will now be recorded electronically — including your biometric data, photo, and exact travel times.
Marvel Travels – Corporate & Leisure brings you a simple guide to help you understand this digital transformation and what it means for Indian visitors heading to Europe.
Understanding the Schengen Entry/Exit System (EES)
The EES is a modern digital platform developed by the European Union to register the arrival and departure of non-EU nationals travelling to and from the Schengen Area for short-term stays (up to 90 days within any 180-day period).
During your first border crossing after the system’s launch, you’ll be asked to provide your biometric information — a quick photograph and fingerprint scan — which will then be securely stored in the European database. Instead of a physical passport stamp, these digital records will confirm your entry and exit each time you travel.
Once your data has been saved, future crossings will be much smoother. Border officers will only need to verify your biometric information, significantly reducing waiting times. After entering the Schengen zone, travellers can continue to move freely across member countries, just as before.
Smarter, Faster, and More Convenient Border Checks
Several European nations are also adopting automated border-control solutions alongside the EES. Expect to see self-service kiosks, e-gates, and mobile applications that allow you to pre-register your details. If you hold a biometric passport, you can complete this process independently before verification by an officer — making the entire experience quicker and more efficient.
The EES aims to reduce manual procedures, eliminate long queues, and create a seamless travel experience for all visitors.
It’s important to note that the Schengen visa application process remains unchanged. Indian citizens must continue to apply through VFS Global for most European destinations, or through BLS International for Spain.
Who Needs to Register Under the New System?
The Entry/Exit System applies to all non-EU travellers, whether they require a visa or are visa-exempt. This means Indian passport holders visiting Europe for short stays will need to register their movements each time they enter or leave the Schengen zone.
However, the rule does not apply to Indians holding long-stay visas or residence permits for employment, studies, or family reunification, as their stays are already managed under separate EU immigration frameworks.
Why Has the EU Introduced the EES?
The European Union has launched this system to strengthen security, transparency, and efficiency across its external borders. By replacing manual passport stamps with digital records, the EES aims to minimise errors, accelerate border checks, and make it easier for authorities to verify a traveller’s history.
It also enhances the EU’s ability to track visa overstays, detect identity fraud, and protect the integrity of visa-free travel. Essentially, the EES represents the EU’s step toward a smarter and more secure border management system for the modern age.
Rollout Schedule Across Europe
The EES will go live on 12 October 2025 across 29 Schengen countries, including traveller-favourite destinations such as France, Italy, Germany, Spain, Switzerland, and Greece. The rollout will be phased over approximately six months, with manual passport stamping running in parallel until the transition is complete by April 2026.
Travellers are encouraged to check the official European Union EES portal for the latest updates and country-specific guidelines before travelling.
Marvel Travels’ Expert Tip
At Marvel Travels – Corporate & Leisure, we recommend that Indian travellers prepare well ahead of time by ensuring their travel documents, biometric passports, and visa applications are in order. With our guidance, you can navigate Europe’s evolving travel systems effortlessly and enjoy an stress-free journey through some of the world’s most stunning destinations.
Travel Smart. Travel Seamlessly. Travel with Marvel.
As Europe embraces a new era of digital travel management, Marvel Travels is here to make sure your transition is smooth, informed, and worry-free. Whether you’re heading for business, leisure, or both, we’ll help you explore Europe with confidence.
For assistance with Schengen visa applications, itinerary planning, or up-to-date travel regulations, connect with our team today.
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