I hope this doesn’t put a damper on your travel dreams, but if Europe is on your radar this year, you’ll want to keep reading. Starting this November, the European Union is rolling out its new Entry-Exit System (EES). But heads up—Schengen Visa delays have been a real headache this summer, with travelers waiting months just to snag a visa interview. And it’s not just Europe; UAE residents are also facing year-long wait times for US visas. But once you’ve finally got that visa in hand, the new EES will make your journey smoother. Stick with me, and I’ll explain how EES is making your European adventure just a bit closer.
What Is The Entry-Exit System?
The EES is a cutting-edge automated system that tracks every move you make in and out of the Schengen Area. Whether you’re jetting off from the UAE to Greece or road-tripping into Spain, this system logs your entry details and captures your biometric data. Say goodbye to passport stamps—this modern approach aims to streamline border checks and crack down on overstayers and identity fraud. When you first register, you’ll need to provide your fingerprints and facial biometrics. For your future trips (within three years), it’s usually just a quick facial scan. Each visit resets your data for another three years, or until your passport expires. Got a new passport? That means a fresh registration. Just a heads up—smaller airports in more remote European towns might not be fully equipped with this new system yet.
What’s Next? The ETIAS
The EES is just the start. By mid-2025, Europe will introduce the Electronic Travel Information and Authorizationb System (ETIAS)—their answer to the US ESTA and UK ETA. Starting then, all non-EU travelers will need to apply online for this AED 29 travel permit. Valid for three years, it’s required for both short-stay visa holders and those exempt from visas, impacting around 1.4 billion people from over 60 countries.
Travelling To Europe With ETIAS
ETIAS isn’t a visa, but you’ll still need it to enter 30 European countries. Just apply online, pay the fee, and you’re set for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Simple as that.
- Personal details
- Passport information
- Employment information
- Active students will require the name of their school
- Disclosure of any serious convictions from the past 20 years
- Travel itinerary (mention – where you are visiting and where you are staying)
The ETIAS website recommends that travelers apply “well in advance.” ETIAS will launch in mid-2025, with a 6-month grace period to ease the transition.
