Travelers heading to Europe in 2026 should know the difference between the EU’s new EES border system and the delayed ETIAS program.
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Americans traveling to Europe may not be aware of the latest entry requirements needed to begin their vacation.
The European Union previously announced the launch of two new border management initiatives that apply to non-EU nationals: the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) and Entry/Exit digital border management system (EES).
The ETIAS and EES are two separate programs, but both are meant to “strengthen European security and security of those who travel,” according to the official EU website.
Some travelers may still be confused over what’s necessary for their trips, especially given that the EES is in effect while the ETIAS has been continually delayed since 2022. To avoid any hiccups at border control, here’s what to know about going to Europe in 2026.
What is the EU’s Entry/Exit System (EES)?
EES is a digital system that replaces the manual passport stamps for non-EU nationals visiting a Schengen Area country for a short stay. Upon arrival, travelers register by having their face and fingerprints scanned in order to have their entry and exit data stored. “The goal is to speed up border checks and to improve internal security,” according to the EU website.
The EES began with a gradual rollout back in October, and since then, there have been nearly 90 million entries and exits, plus 1,000 people identified as a security threat, a European Commission spokesperson told USA TODAY in a June email.
Do I need to do the EES?
Yes. As of April 10, the EES has been fully operational at all border crossings in the Schengen Area.
According to some reports, travelers have faced long lines and even missed connecting flights as airports deal with growing pains during the transition to biometric kiosks.
To potentially speed up the process, travelers to Sweden and Portugal can download the Travel to Europe mobile app and pre-register their passport data and facial image within 72 hours of entering or exiting a European nation. More nations may be added to the app later, but features may vary.
What is the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS)?
ETIAS is an entry requirement that prescreens visa-exempt nationals, including Americans, traveling to 30 European countries. It allows travelers to enter any of those countries as often as they want for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. However, it does not guarantee an automatic right to entry, and border guards still need to verify your identity.
“ETIAS is not a visa and does not reintroduce visa-like obligations,” European Commission spokesperson Anitta Hipper previously told USA TODAY. “There will be no need to go to a consulate to make an application, no biometric data will be collected and no additional documentation will be required beyond a valid travel document.”
The ETIAS was set to cost 20 euros – or about $23 – and be tied to your passport. It’s valid for up to three years, unless your passport expires before then. In that case, you’d need to apply for a new ETIAS.
Do I need to do the ETIAS?
Not yet. As of Aug. 17, 2026, the ETIAS is still not in operation, so travelers don’t need to apply for one. It was first proposed in 2016 and has continually been postponed. The last announced launch date was late 2026.