Greece is set to implement the Entry/Exit System (EES) in October 2025, joining other Schengen Area countries in a significant overhaul of border control. This new digital system will replace traditional passport stamps with biometric data, aiming to enhance security, streamline travel, and improve efficiency for non-EU nationals entering the Schengen zone.

Key Takeaways

  • Greece joins a growing list of Schengen countries adopting the EES in October 2025.
  • The system replaces manual passport stamping with biometric data collection (fingerprints and facial scans).
  • Aims to improve border security, streamline crossings, and combat overstays.
  • Applies to non-EU nationals visiting for short stays.
  • Major entry points like Athens International Airport and Piraeus Port will be equipped with new technology.

Understanding the Entry/Exit System (EES)

The EES is a centralized European Union system designed to modernize border management. For non-EU travelers, this means that instead of receiving a passport stamp, their fingerprints and facial scans will be recorded upon entry and exit from the Schengen Area. This digital record will help track the duration of stays, thereby enhancing security and preventing illegal overstays. The system is intended to create a more efficient and secure border control process across all participating Schengen member states.

Greece’s Role in the EES Implementation

As a major gateway to Southern Europe and a popular tourist destination, Greece’s adoption of the EES is a crucial step. Key entry points such as Athens International Airport and Piraeus Port are undergoing upgrades to integrate the advanced biometric systems required for the EES. This modernization is expected to lead to faster processing times for travelers, ultimately benefiting Greece’s significant tourism sector by offering a smoother and more secure travel experience.

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Impact on Travelers

For travelers planning visits to Greece and other Schengen countries from October 2025 onwards, preparation is key. Non-EU nationals will need to provide biometric data at border control points. While the system aims for efficiency, travelers should anticipate potential initial delays during the transition period. It is essential to ensure passports are valid and machine-readable. The EES will also work in conjunction with existing visa requirements for short stays (up to 90 days within a 180-day period).

Preparing for the Changes

Travelers should ensure their passports meet the validity requirements (at least three months beyond intended departure and issued within the last 10 years). Familiarizing oneself with the new biometric registration process will be important. While the EES aims to simplify border crossings in the long run, being aware of these changes and planning accordingly will ensure a smoother travel experience into the Schengen Area.

Sources

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Emre Emehet
Emre Emehet
Emre Emehet is a 45-year-old journalist from the Balkans, best known for his dedication to telling stories that reflect the everyday lives of people in his region. Growing up in a small town in northern Bosnia, Emre always had an interest in local history and storytelling, which drew him to pursue a degree in journalism and communications at the University of Sarajevo. He wasn’t the top of his class, but his professors admired his practical approach and natural curiosity, qualities that would later define his career.

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