EES Rollout Expands as EU Gears Up for ETIAS 2026
Dec 11, 2025
Category: Border and Security EES ETIAS EU News
Having launched the Entry/Exit System (EES) last October 12, the European Union (EU) is now ramping up its rollout across Schengen borders.
Officials met to assess the progress and finalize preparations for the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) launch in 2026.
Full border tech rollout by 2026
With the EES already in motion since October 12, EU officials met to push the system’s gradual implementation across Schengen borders.
The two-day virtual meeting on December 2–3 gathered representatives from EU Member States, the European Commission, Frontex, eu-LISA, and associated countries to track progress and sharpen plans for the launch of the ETIAS by the end of 2026.
Different rollout speeds
The rollout of the EES across Europe is happening in phases. Some countries launched the system at all external border-crossing points right away, while others are switching it on step-by-step.
Each country has its own national rollout plan and is allowed up to 180 days from the October 12 launch to complete the process. This includes borders by air, land, and sea.
In the meantime, traditional passport stamping is still being used at border points where the EES hasn’t been activated yet. According to the EU, this flexible approach allows for a stable and orderly transition.
Member States are expected to gradually increase the number of registrations in the system throughout the ramp-up phase.
Tech support on the ground
Throughout the transition, eu-LISA—the EU agency managing the system—continues to provide central monitoring and operational guidance. The agency is also offering on-site support where needed.
According to the report, daily coordination between eu-LISA and national authorities is helping ensure “consistent decision-making and timely responses to evolving operational needs.”
This support is seen as essential to keeping the system running smoothly, especially as more border-crossing points are brought online.
Carriers face new checks
One of the key developments discussed during the advisory group meeting was the upcoming responsibility for air, sea, and coach carriers.
Starting in April 2026, these companies will be required to verify whether third-country nationals traveling with a short-stay visa have already used up their allowed entries. This check must be done before departure.
To help carriers prepare, eu-LISA has developed several digital tools, including the Carrier Interface. This system is available as a system-to-system integration, a web portal, and a mobile app for iOS and Android.
These tools are designed to help carriers perform the required checks securely and efficiently.
The Carrier Interface will be available starting January 9, 2026.
Although use of the system is not mandatory yet, carriers are being encouraged to begin familiarizing themselves with it from that date and to gradually increase operational use in the weeks that follow.
As part of the onboarding process, companies are expected to train staff on both the web and mobile versions of the tool and to confirm completion of that training with eu-LISA’s onboarding team.
Support hub for transport companies
To streamline communication between the EU and carriers, eu-LISA is also running the Carrier Onboarding and Support Tool (COBST). This platform gives transport companies access to updates, operational guidance, technical support, and multilingual resources.
An updated version of the EES/ETIAS FAQ, prepared by Frontex, is also available through COBST. It now includes additional guidance for the progressive start of the EES and new information related to sea-travel scenarios.
These tools are intended to help companies adapt to their upcoming legal obligations ahead of the April 2026 deadline.
ETIAS preparations ramp up
While EES is being deployed, preparations for ETIAS are moving forward. According to the meeting summary, ETIAS remains a “central EU priority,” and several areas are being developed in parallel.
Testing of ETIAS systems by Member States is ongoing and has been streamlined into a single, continuous campaign running through March 2026.
Twenty-one Member States and EU agencies have already completed parts of the required test scenarios. Full end-to-end business testing activities are expected to begin in December 2025, with support from Frontex.
Workflows, compliance tools underway
Implementation of the Screening Regulation, which governs the ETIAS application process, is also progressing. Member States have reached agreement on the workflows that will be used for screening applications.
At the same time, eu-LISA is developing new digital tools to assist travelers and carriers. This includes an AI-based chatbot aimed at improving how travelers access and interact with ETIAS services.
Work is also ongoing to complete the Data Protection Impact Assessment for ETIAS, which is being finalized in cooperation with Frontex to ensure compliance with EU data protection standards.
Heads-up for future EU visitors
Once both systems are fully operational, travelers entering the EU will go through a more automated process. EES will log entries and exits, replacing manual passport stamps for third-country nationals.
ETIAS will introduce a new requirement for travelers from over 60 visa-free countries, who will need to apply for travel authorization online before their trip.
These changes are part of the EU’s broader effort to modernize borders, streamline checks, and improve security through digital tools.
While the systems are still being rolled out and tested, travelers and transport operators are being encouraged to stay informed and prepare for the new rules in advance of 2026.
Crossing into change
The EU’s move to expand the EES and prepare for ETIAS emphasizes its push to modernize how people travel into the Schengen Area. The rollout marks a shift toward more automated checks and clearer rules for non‑EU travelers.
These changes shape how millions of visitors will move through European borders in the coming years. As Member States continue refining the systems, travelers and carriers will be watching how smoothly the transition unfolds.