There will be more queues: the EES system has been launched at three more Ukrainian-Polish border crossing points

The European Entry/Exit System (EES) continues to expand at the Ukrainian-Polish border, with three more checkpoints in the Lviv region now joining the system. The new rules are already having a noticeable impact on the speed of border crossings and causing longer queues. Find out where the system has been implemented, how it works, and what Ukrainians can expect

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The new European Entry/Exit System (EES) continues to be implemented at the border between Ukraine and Poland. It has now officially begun operating at three more Polish border crossings bordering the Lviv region: Kroscienko-Smolnica, Malchowice-Nizhankovychi, and Stroymezh-Hrushev. This was reported by the State Border Service.

The system was already in operation at Medyka-Shehyni, Korczowa-Krakivets, and on the Przemyśl-Mostyska railway line. At other border crossings, the EES is currently operating in test mode, but there are plans to extend it to the entire border in the near future.

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What has changed for Ukrainians

The EES system replaces the usual stamps in passports with electronic registration. When entering the Schengen area for the first time, the traveller's data is entered into the database: the document is scanned, a photo of the face is taken and fingerprints are taken. This procedure applies to third-country nationals, including Ukrainians, if they cross the border under the visa-free regime.

As a result, border control now takes longer. The new procedure requires additional steps from each traveller, which already leads to longer queues. This is particularly noticeable at popular border crossings in the Lviv region, where the flow of Ukrainians is traditionally the highest.

EES is part of a large-scale EU reform to strengthen the security of external borders. The system helps to record the exact time of entry and exit of foreigners, prevents overstaying, and replaces the outdated paper stamp system. In the long term, this will simplify the work of border guards and make travel more transparent, but at the implementation stage, it slows down the processing.

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What to consider

Those who travel to Poland frequently should allow more time for border control, especially when crossing for the first time after the system's launch. Children under 12 years of age are not required to provide fingerprints, but others must undergo full registration. It is recommended to prepare documents in advance, follow the border service announcements, and take into account possible delays.

Don't forget that travelling abroad always requires careful preparation for your own safety. To feel confident, take out medical insurance that will cover your basic needs in case of unforeseen health situations.

Reminder! The launch of the Entry-Exit System (EES) on 12 October was the most significant change at EU borders in recent years. The new rules are designed to improve security and migration control, but the first few days were chaotic — especially for Ukrainians crossing the border with Poland. Queues, glitches, and unprepared infrastructure showed that the system needs refinement. Find out how the EES works now and what travellers can expect.

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