Europe Replaces Passport Stamps With Biometric System
Starting October 12, 2025, Americans visiting Europe will encounter new border procedures as the European Union launches its Entry/Exit System (EES). The system eliminates traditional passport stamps and instead records traveler information digitally. Visitors will be required to provide a facial photograph and four fingerprints at airports, land crossings, and seaports across the Schengen zone.
Who Will Be Subject to the Rules
The new requirement applies to all short-term visitors from non-EU countries, including U.S. citizens traveling without a visa. Biometric data is collected on the first entry and stored to simplify subsequent visits. Children under 12 are exempt from fingerprinting, and special arrangements exist for travelers who cannot provide prints due to medical or other valid reasons.
Potential Delays and Data Privacy Concerns
EU officials argue that the system will improve security and help monitor overstays, but transportation hubs are preparing for possible congestion as the change takes effect. Privacy advocates have raised questions about how long biometric information will be retained and what protections will be in place to ensure compliance with European data privacy regulations.
