2026 marks the full implementation of the European Union's Entry/Exit System (EES), a system that radically changes the way we cross borders. Facial recognition, fingerprints, and automated gates are now the new reality at major EU airports—including those in Greece.
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🚀 What is the EES and when did it launch
The Entry/Exit System is an automated entry/exit recording system for third-country nationals (non-EU/Schengen) entering Europe. It replaces manual passport stamps with digital records.
📅 EES Timeline
- 🔹 2017: EES regulation adopted
- 🔹 2023: Postponed due to technical issues
- 🔹 2024: Pilot implementation at selected airports
- 🔹 2025-2026: Full rollout at all Schengen entry points
💾 What biometric data is collected
Upon entering the Schengen zone, travelers from third countries provide:
Facial Photo
High-resolution capture for real-time facial recognition
4 Fingerprints
Four-finger scan for identity verification
Passport Details
Automatic reading and recording of travel document details
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✈️ The situation at Greek airports
Greece, as a popular tourist destination and an external EU border, is at the forefront of EES implementation. Major airports have installed:
❓ How the process works for travelers
🛫 Step by step
- Self-service kiosk: The traveler scans their passport
- Photo capture: The camera takes a facial photo
- Fingerprint scan: Place 4 fingers on the sensor
- Verification: Data is checked in real time against databases
- eGate: Pass through the automated gate with facial recognition
⏱️ The entire process takes an average of 1–2 minutes
🇪🇺 What this means for Greek and European citizens
EU citizens are not required to provide biometric data for the EES, but they can use the automated gates (eGates) with their biometric passports.
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✅ Advantages
- Faster border crossing
- Reduced waiting queues
- Better security control
- No manual stamps
⚠️ Concerns
- Privacy concerns
- Data stored for 3+ years
- Potential misuse of information
- Technical recognition errors
🔮 ETIAS: the next phase
Alongside the EES, the EU is preparing ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System). From 2026, travelers from visa-exempt countries (USA, Canada, Australia, etc.) will need to submit an online application before traveling to Europe.
📊 ETIAS in numbers
🎯 Conclusion
Biometric systems at EU airports are now a reality. While they offer significant advantages in speed and security, they also raise questions about privacy and the use of personal data. For travelers, the key is preparation: knowing what to expect makes the process smoother and more efficient.
OnOff Team
The OnOff.gr team keeps you updated on the latest tech developments in Greece and Europe.
