Travel Tips

EU entry/exit system: What business travelers must know before October

Stephanie Black

February 20, 2026

The European Union's new Entry/Exit System (EES) is set to transform how non-EU travelers cross into the Schengen Area. By replacing manual passport stamps with automated biometric checks — including fingerprints and facial recognition — the system aims to strengthen border security while modernizing the travel experience.

What is EES?

The EES is an automated IT system that will register entry and exit records of non-EU nationals crossing the external borders of the Schengen Area. It replaces the current system of manually stamping passports and creates a digital record of when and where a traveler entered and exited.

How it affects business travelers

For frequent business travelers to Europe, the first registration will take slightly longer as biometric data is collected. Subsequent entries should be faster since the system will already have your information on file. However, initial rollout periods may see longer queues at borders.

Preparing your travel program

Travel managers should communicate the changes to their teams well in advance. Build extra buffer time into European travel itineraries during the first few months of implementation. Ensure traveler profiles are up to date with current passport information.

ITS is ready

Our platform has been updated to flag trips that will be affected by the EES rollout and provide travelers with preparation guidance as part of their pre-trip communications. Contact your account manager for more details.

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