The EES system has been launched in Europe: what Ukrainians need to know before entering the EU

Europe is preparing to launch a new border control system — EES. Starting 12 October, the usual stamp in your passport will be replaced by biometric registration, and the entry process will become completely digital. Find out what surprises the EES system has in store and how to avoid unpleasant surprises when travelling to Europe

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On 12 October 2025, a new border crossing procedure came into force in European Union countries — EES (Entry/Exit System). It replaces the usual stamps in passports and introduces automatic collection of biometric data when entering and leaving the Schengen area. This is one of the most significant innovations in border control in recent decades. Below, we explain what will change for Ukrainians.

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What is EES and why is it being introduced?

EES is a single electronic system that records the date and place of entry or exit of third-country nationals, i.e. those who are not members of the European Union and the Schengen area.

The main goal of the innovation is to enhance security and simplify the control of migration flows. Thanks to the system, European services will be able to quickly identify cases of overstaying and combat illegal migration.

Instead of stamps in their passports, travellers will undergo registration: fingerprint scanning, facial photography and foreign passport data reading. All information is stored in the EU database and does not need to be re-entered on subsequent trips.

The implementation process will be gradual. In the first few months, the EES will only be operational at certain border crossing points, and the system should completely replace paper stamps by April 2026. In Poland, which is considered the main hub for Ukrainians crossing the border, the system will also start operating on 12 October.

Read also: Guide to hassle-free travel under the new rules for crossing the border into Europe

How the new rules will affect Ukrainians

Ukrainians who cross the EU border as citizens of a non-EU country are subject to the EES. This means that for each trip of up to 90 days within a 180-day period, biometric data will be recorded automatically.

However, there are exceptions for holders of temporary protection in the EU. Their status has already been extended until March 2027, and when travelling between Schengen countries, such Ukrainians may be exempt from certain formalities, such as the need to obtain an ETIAS authorisation.

It should be noted that even with temporary protection, you will still have to go through the EES system. Biometric identification is a requirement for everyone entering or leaving the EU.

Reminder! If you are travelling in your own car, a Green Card motor insurance policy is mandatory for entry into the EU.

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How to cross the border

At the border, travellers will be asked to go through a short registration procedure. First, your fingerprints will be scanned and a photo of your face will be taken, then the system will automatically read your passport details.

This data is stored for several years, and you will not have to go through the procedure again on subsequent trips if your passport has not changed. All information is protected in accordance with European privacy standards and is stored for no more than five years.

If a traveller refuses to provide biometric data, they may be denied entry. Therefore, it is important to be prepared for the new requirements and allow a little more time for border control, especially in the first months after the system is launched.

How to check queues at the border – look here.

What is ETIAS and how does it differ from EES

In parallel with the EES system, the European Union is preparing to launch another tool — ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System). This is an online authorisation that citizens of visa-free countries will need to obtain before travelling to the EU.

ETIAS will come into force no earlier than 2026. The application is submitted online, costs around seven euros and is valid for three years. Once approved, the traveller will receive an electronic entry permit, which will be automatically checked when crossing the border.

Ukrainians with temporary protection are exempt from the need to obtain ETIAS, but those travelling without such status (for example, simply under a visa-free regime) will have to undergo authorisation.

It is also important to take care of your own comfort and safety: before leaving Ukraine, it is recommended to take out insurance for traveling abroad. It will cover medical expenses in case of illness or accident while staying in the EU. This is especially relevant given the new rules and possible delays at the border.

What you need to know before travelling

Before travelling, it is worth checking whether EES is operational at the border crossing point you plan to use. In the early stages, the system will not be operational everywhere. It is also important to carry a valid document confirming temporary protection — this may simplify the control process.

If you have renewed your passport, you will need to re-register your biometric data during your first trip after doing so. In addition, it is worth considering the 90/180-day rule — the system will now automatically track the length of your stay, so exceeding the limit will be obvious to border guards.

Don't forget that some countries may additionally require medical insurance or proof of residence. Find out these details in advance — and you will cross the border without delay.

What Ukrainians need to know

The EES system does not cancel visa-free travel for Ukrainian citizens, but adds a technological layer between your passport and entry into the EU. It should make controls more transparent and secure — both for travellers and for European services.

To avoid problems, it is recommended that you familiarise yourself with the official instructions on the border service websites in advance and check for updates. Most importantly, remember that all data is entered only once, and subsequent trips will be even easier than before.

If you need help with the rules for entering the European Union or explanations about the necessary documents, we recommend contacting the immigration lawyers at Visit Ukraine, who will quickly and clearly explain all the key rules.

Reminder! The visa-free regime has greatly simplified travel for Ukrainians, but it has limitations, so some Ukrainians need to apply for a visa to travel to the EU. Depending on the purpose of the trip, there are different types of visas, each of which requires a specific set of documents. We will tell you which Ukrainians cannot enter Europe visa-free, what types of visas exist, and what documents are required to apply.

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