The EES is designed to modernise border control and replace passport stamping, changing how musicians cross both UK and EU borders. Image credit: Shutterstock.
The EU’s long awaited Entry/Exit System (EES) is now live, with the system currently operating at selected countries and border entry points.
The EES is designed to modernise border control and replace passport stamping, changing how musicians cross EU borders.
How the EES works
The EES is an automated IT system that registers non-EU nationals travelling to the EU for short stays of up to 90 days. Travellers are registered each time they cross the border of a European country.
The system records a traveller’s name, travel document details, biometric data (fingerprints and a facial image), as well as the date and place of entry and exit, in line with EU data protection rules. It also logs any refusals of entry and tracks time spent in the EU under the 90/180‑day rule.
Members should be aware that delays may occur at EU borders, while biometric data is captured.
Find out more details about the new system on the EU website.
Mobile app and online guidance available
To support travellers, the EU has developed a new ‘Travel to Europe’ mobile app for non-EU nationals subject to EES registration.
It allows people to pre-register passport details and a facial image before reaching a border crossing where the app is in use, and to complete the entry conditions questionnaire in advance.
At present, the app can only be used prior to entering Sweden or Portugal, but this is expected to expand as more member states adopt the system.
Arts Infopoint UK also has a recorded webinar available. Originally hosted in 2024, the session explains how the EES affects different travellers, including entry rules, the 90/180-day limit, travel through multiple countries, border issues, and touring and work considerations.
The recording is available to watch below.