Exploring Switzerland Travel: Addressing Uncertainties Regarding EES and ETIAS
Starting October 12, 2025, the Entry/Exit System (EES) will begin its phased implementation for non-EU/Schengen zone residents entering and leaving the Schengen Area. This system requires biometric data such as fingerprints and facial images at border crossings, replacing the traditional passport stamping [1][2][3].
The EES rollout will be completed by April 10, 2026. During the transition phase, both passport stamping and EES biometric registration will be in use for non-EU nationals [1][2][3].
Following full EES implementation, the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) will launch in late 2026 with a grace period extending into 2027. This system applies to visa-exempt non-EU travelers who must obtain online pre-travel authorization by submitting personal details, answering security questions, and paying a €20 fee (exemptions apply for children under 18 and adults over 70) [2][4]. ETIAS authorization will be electronically linked to the traveler's passport, valid for three years or until passport expiry [4].
Non-EU/Schengen residents should expect longer processing times due to biometric data collection during the EES phase and are advised to prepare accordingly [1][3][4]. The phased rollout means initially not all border points will use EES, and procedures may vary during transition [2].
EU/Schengen residents are not subject to EES biometric registration or ETIAS authorization requirements [1][2][3].
Visa-holders are not required to complete EES pre-registration, including those with short-stay Schengen visas. There is no fee for EES, but a fee is associated with ETIAS [2][4].
ETIAS is an online visa waiver required for tourists and other visitors into the EU/Schengen zone. Travellers must go online in advance of their trip, fill in a form, and pay a €20 fee to receive the ETIAS travel authorization. Once purchased, this will last three years or until the traveler gets a new passport [4].
Some airports and ports are already running live tests of their systems. During the introduction phase, it will be up to each country to choose which ports/airports/stations that will enforce EES [2].
During the first six months after ETIAS is introduced, individuals will still be allowed into the EU without one - this is intended as the 'education phase' [3]. Any website offering to complete EES or ETIAS for a fee is a scam site [5].
The European Commission has opted for a phased introduction for EES, aiming for full implementation within six months. Switzerland and Norway are among the 29 countries that will be part of the EES system [1]. The ETIAS website is not yet up and running, and any website claiming to process ETIAS applications or offering to help with them is a scam [6].
Non-EU citizens who are residents of an EU/Schengen zone country with a long-stay visa or a residency permit are not covered by EES and do not have to complete EES pre-registration or provide biometrics [7].
In summary:
- Non-EU/Schengen residents: From Oct 2025, must provide biometric data when entering/exiting via EES; from late 2026 or 2027, must obtain ETIAS authorization before travel if visa-exempt.
- EU/Schengen residents: Not subject to EES biometric registration or ETIAS authorization requirements.
Travelers are advised to stay informed about the progress of these systems and to follow official channels for updates and instructions.
In light of the implementation of the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) in late 2026, an individual's finance may be impacted as visa-exempt non-EU travelers will need to pay a €20 fee for ETIAS authorization. Meanwhile, changes in lifestyle might be necessary as non-EU/Schengen residents will need to account for potential longer processing times due to biometric data collection during both the EES phase and ETIAS application process.
