EU to replace passport stamps with biometric checks from October

The European Union will officially begin phasing out passport stamps for non-EU travellers from October 12, replacing them with biometric checks under the new Entry/Exit System (EES), officials confirmed on Friday.

The system, which has faced repeated delays, will require non-EU citizens—including British travellers—to have their fingerprints and facial images scanned when entering or leaving the Schengen Area.

It marks a significant shift in how the EU monitors its borders, moving from manual, paper-based controls to a digital, biometric system.

The rollout will take place gradually over six months and is expected to be fully operational across all EU member states by April 10, 2026.

Under the new procedure, travellers will need to register their biometric data and passport details the first time they cross an EU border after the system comes into effect.

The data will then be stored for up to three years and used to automatically log entries and exits at future crossings.

“Anyone who refuses to provide the required biometric information will be denied entry into the EU,” an EU border control spokesperson stated.

“This system will enhance security, reduce the risk of overstays, and streamline border management.”

Currently, visitors from countries like the UK have their passports manually inspected and stamped by border officers.

That process will be discontinued as EES terminals are installed at airports, ports, and land border crossings throughout the bloc.

The system was originally scheduled to launch in November 2023 but was delayed due to technical and logistical challenges, including coordination across member states and updates to border infrastructure.

Some travel industry groups have raised concerns about potential bottlenecks during the rollout, especially at busy travel hubs. In response, EU officials say border staff are being trained and public awareness campaigns are planned to inform travellers about the new requirements.

The EES is part of a broader push by the EU to modernize and digitize border control, and it will eventually work in tandem with the upcoming European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), set to launch in 2026.