Europe’s Entry/Exit System (EES)
Details
Starting in 2026, the European Union launched a digital border system called the Entry/Exit System (EES). This affects American travelers.
What is EES?
- EES replaces physical passport stamps with a digital record.
- Each time you enter or exit a participating European country, the system electronically logs your arrival and departure.
- It also collects a fingerprint scan and a photo.
- Think of it as a digital passport stamp that is faster and more high‑tech.
More information: <https://travel-europe.europa.eu/ees>
Does it apply to you?
- Yes. As a U.S. citizen traveling to Europe for a short stay, you must be registered in EES.
- This applies to trips to Greece and any other participating country you visit.
What you’ll do on arrival
At your first European border crossing, you will:
- Scan your passport
- Have your photo taken
- Provide a fingerprint scan
This takes just a few minutes and only needs to happen once per trip, at your first point of entry.
Will this slow things down?
- Lines may initially be longer as the system rolls out, especially at busy airports.
- Build in a little extra time on arrival days and be patient.
The 90‑day rule
- EES digitally tracks how long you stay in Europe.
- As a U.S. citizen, you are allowed up to 90 days within any 180‑day period across all participating countries combined.
- Your trip is expected to fall well within that window.
Bottom line
This is mainly a background change that will make border crossings more efficient over time. For your trip, expect a quick extra step at your first European entry point, then continue on your way. Updates will be shared if anything changes before departure.