EU launching new biometric control system from today. What you need to know

On October 12, the European Union began implementing a new biometric control system (Entry/Exit digital border management system, EES). It was reported by the Western Regional Directorate of the State Border Guard Service.

"It is planned to launch the system in stages starting from October 12, 2025 at checkpoints, including on the border with EU member states - Poland, Slovakia, Hungary and Romania," the statement said.

The EES system will apply to all third-country nationals (including Ukraine) crossing the external borders of the Schengen area for short-term stays (up to 90 days within a 180-day period).

What is the new biometric control system

The EES system is an automated centralized database designed to electronically track border crossings without stamping passports.

At the first entry into the Schengen area, after the launch of EES, a person will undergo an extended registration, which will include the collection of biometric data: a face image and four fingerprints. For subsequent border crossings, the process will be simplified and accelerated, as biometric data will be checked against existing digital information. The system will automatically record the date, time, and place of entry/exit.

The European Commission has announced the phased launch of EES from October 12, 2025. The border agencies of the participating countries are expected to gradually put the system into operation during a six-month transition period.

"It should be noted that the implementation of EES is aimed at speeding up border control, increasing security, accurate accounting of the periods of stay of citizens in the EU countries, combating illegal migration, etc." added the SBGS.

We will remind, earlier border guards found that a Ukrainian woman has USD 1 million under the hood of a Mercedes.