The European Union is introducing a new Entry/Exit System (EES), which will commence operation on 12 October 2025.
The new system aims to strengthen control of the external borders of the Schengen area, increase security, and simplify procedures for citizens of non-EU countries.
What citizens of the Republic of Armenia need to know
Who is affected? – The new system applies to all citizens who are not citizens of an EU or Schengen member state, including citizens of the Republic of Armenia.
What is changing – At border crossings, EU and Schengen countries will register each entry and exit, replacing the current practice of stamping passports.
Data to be recorded:
- Personal data (name, surname, citizenship, etc.),
- Travel document data,
- Date and place of entry and exit,
- Biometric data: fingerprint and facial photograph.
Validity check – The system will automatically verify whether the person’s entry is permitted and whether the rule for a short stay in the Schengen area, “90 days in any 180 days,” has been exceeded.
Where will it operate? The system will operate at all external border crossing points, including airports, seaports, and land border crossing points.
How to prepare: Travellers should be ready to provide biometric data (fingerprints, photograph) and undergo a longer border check, especially when entering the country for the first time.
The EES is an EU-wide digital border management system designed to increase the transparency and security of migration processes. For more detailed information about the system, please visit the following link.
