Foreign rule adjustments impacting Belarusians: An overview of EU's forthcoming policy changes
The European Union is set to introduce a new electronic border control system (EBCS), also known as the Entry/Exit System (EES), from October 12, 2025. This system will digitally register entries and exits of non-EU citizens entering any of the 29 European countries, including those in the Schengen Area [1].
Under the EBCS, border guards will scan the fingerprints and take a photograph of each entrant. The collected biometric data, along with travel information like passport details and dates of entry and exit, will be stored in a centralized EU database, replacing traditional passport stamps [2].
The EBCS will apply to all non-EU citizens, including those who enter visa-free for up to 90 days within 180 days, or with short-term visas (type C). It does not apply to residents or permanent permit holders, who are subject to separate controls [1].
The system aims to speed up border processing and strengthen security. By identifying overstayers and reducing document fraud, the EBCS will enable real-time data sharing between EU member states involved in the Schengen area. This will allow for automated and consistent control across external EU borders [2].
The EBCS is expected to systematically identify individuals violating residence rules within the EU and detect cases of document and identity fraud within the Union. In some cases, data may need to be recollected under the EBCS [3].
Registration for the EBCS will be mandatory and paid, costing €7 [4]. Some border crossings may have self-service systems installed for the EBCS. During the rollout, travel documents may still be stamped, but eventually, all checks will be biometric and digital [1][2][3][4].
All EU countries must implement the EBCS within six months of its introduction. The EBCS is expected to be fully operational by April 9, 2026 [1]. The EU countries may still operate under the current scheme until the transition period ends.
It's important to note that ETIAS, a separate electronic self-registration system planned for citizens of visa-free countries with the EU from 2026, is not mentioned to replace the current EBCS [5].
The implementation of the EBCS will eliminate the need for entry and exit stamps in passports, streamlining the travel process for non-EU citizens entering the EU.
[1] European Commission Press Release: https://ec.europa.eu/home-affairs/what-we-do/policies/borders-and-visas/policy-areas/entry-exit-system-ees_en [2] European Parliament: https://www.europarl.europa.eu/RegData/etudes/BRIE/2020/670746/EPRS_BRI(2020)670746_EN.pdf [3] European Commission Factsheet: https://ec.europa.eu/info/publications/entry-exit-system-ees-factsheet_en [4] European Commission: Frequently Asked Questions: https://ec.europa.eu/home-affairs/what-we-do/policies/borders-and-visas/policy-areas/entry-exit-system-ees/faqs_en [5] European Commission Press Release on ETIAS: https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/IP_21_4788
The new electronic border control system (EBCS) will not only digitally register travel details of non-EU citizens but also incorporate technology such as biometric data scanning, aiming to streamline the lifestyle of visitors while improving security. With the EBCS in place, travel documents will become increasingly digital and border processing more efficient, potentially prompting a shift towards a more technologically-oriented travel experience within the European Union.
