# New rules for entry into Schengen have been introduced

From October 12, 2025, new rules for crossing external borders come into force for citizens of countries not part of the European Union. They will be in effect in all 29 European states, regardless of the presence of a visa-free regime with the EU.

As BAKU.WS reports with reference to dw.com, Schengen area countries are introducing an electronic entry and exit system - EES (Entry Exit System). It will allow the collection and verification of biometric data of third-country nationals when crossing borders - at airports, train stations, road checkpoints and seaports.

Who will be affected by the new rules

The EES system will record data of all citizens of countries arriving in the Schengen area for short-term visits - up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Holders of residence permits in Schengen countries are not subject to the new rules.

For citizens and residents of EU countries, as well as for holders of long-term visas, separate queues will be provided. They will need to present a visa, passport or residence permit.

How the entry procedure will change

When first passing through the system, travelers will need to have their photo taken and fingerprints submitted, after which a digital record with passport data is created. On subsequent border crossings, this information will be automatically verified against the database. Children under 12 years old do not need to submit fingerprints.

Registration will be conducted at special EES terminals or automated machines at borders, available to holders of biometric passports.

Gradual implementation

The transition to EES will proceed in stages. The system will be fully operational by April 10, 2026, after which stamps in passports will be replaced by electronic entries.

According to The Independent, on October 12, the new system will be fully implemented only in the Czech Republic, Estonia and Luxembourg. Germany will start with Düsseldorf airport, later Frankfurt am Main and Munich will be connected. During the first six months, border guards will continue to stamp passports, while simultaneously collecting biometric data.

Why the system is being introduced

The goal of EES is to speed up and simplify border control, making travel safer and more transparent. The European Commission notes that the new database will enable more effective tracking of entries and exits, prevent visa regime abuse and identify cases of overstaying.

According to Markus Lammert, official representative of the European Commission, the system will provide reliable data on border crossings and help identify document forgery and cases of identity substitution.

Common database

All information about travelers will be stored in a single pan-European database. This will allow Schengen area countries to exchange information and promptly track the movements of foreign nationals, strengthening security control and the fight against crime.