The EES system has been launched at the border with Poland: Ukrainians have been warned about queues

3 On November 3, new rules for traveling to Poland were introduced. Now all travelers must undergo biometric control. Find out how the EES system works, who is affected by the changes, and how to avoid queues at the border

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On November 3, 2025, a new digital system for controlling entry into and exit from the Schengen area began operating on the border between Ukraine and Poland. All travelers are now required to undergo passport scanning and biometric data collection procedures. As reported by the State Customs Service of Ukraine, this may cause significant delays at certain border crossing points.

How does the new EES system work at the border with Poland?

From now on, everyone crossing the Polish border through the Yagodin-Dorohusk and Ustyluh-Zosin checkpoints must undergo initial registration at a self-service terminal or with a border guard.

During registration, passports are scanned, photographs are taken, and fingerprints are collected. For children under 12, the procedure is simplified — fingerprints are not taken.

The collected biometric data will be stored in the EU's digital database, and during subsequent trips, the information will simply be checked against existing records, which should speed up the procedure in the future. However, at the initial stage of implementation, there may be delays at checkpoints.

Where else do the new rules apply?

The new requirements have already been implemented not only at the border with Poland. Since October 28, the Entry/Exit System (EES) has also been in operation at the Ukrainian-Hungarian border — at all checkpoints. Previously, the system was in test mode at the Krakivets-Korchova, Hrushev-Budomierz, Smilnytsia-Korostenko, Shehyni-Medyka, and Nyzhankovychi-Malchovice border crossings.

The State Customs Service warns that technical issues may cause temporary difficulties and longer waiting times. Therefore, citizens are advised to plan their trips in advance with extra time or choose less busy checkpoints.

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Why was the EES system introduced?

The European Union has introduced the EES (Entry/Exit System) to strengthen security at external borders and simplify the control of the movement of foreigners. It will automatically record the dates of entry and exit, as well as the length of stay in the Schengen area.

State Border Service spokesman Andriy Demchenko explained that this procedure will apply to every person upon each entry and exit, regardless of citizenship. It is intended to replace traditional passport stamps, making control more accurate and digital.

How to avoid delays while traveling?

The State Customs Service advises citizens to monitor the situation at the border using a special interactive map, which displays the status of queues in real time. Also, in order to register faster, it is worth having all the necessary documents with you: medical insurance, confirmation of the purpose of travel, and proof of financial security.

Drivers traveling to EU countries should obtain a Green Card in advance — an international insurance policy that is mandatory for crossing the border by car. This can be done conveniently online on the Visit Ukraine platform, where you can choose the best insurance option and receive the policy by mail immediately after payment.

We remind you! The electronic vignette is now available online at Visit Ukraine — quickly and officially. Read how to get an e-vignette for traveling in Europe in just a few clicks.

Photo: Straż Graniczna

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