08/16/2025
European entry is changing--
Information taken from ACTA Aug. 16, 2025
Starting October 12, 2025, a new digital border system will impact your Canadian clients traveling to Europe.
What is EES?
The Entry/Exit System (EES) is Europe's new automated border control system. Instead of stamping passports, it will digitally record when travelers enter and leave 29 European countries, including popular destinations like France, Italy, Spain, Germany, and the Netherlands.
Who Does This Affect?
All Canadian citizens traveling to these European countries for short stays (up to 90 days within any 180-day period) will need to register in the EES system. This applies whether your clients need a visa or are traveling visa-free.
The system covers these 29 countries:
Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.
What's Different for Travelers?
First-time registration: Travelers will provide fingerprints and a digital photo
No more passport stamps: Digital tracking replaces physical stamps
Faster future crossings: Self-service kiosks will speed up repeat visits
90-day tracking: The system automatically calculates stay limits across all participating countries
Who Is Exempt?
EU citizens and residents
People with long-term residence permits
Certain business travelers (intra-corporate transfers)
Students and researchers on specific programs
Diplomats and heads of state
What This Means for Your Business
Advise clients to:
Allow extra time at borders during the initial rollout
Ensure their passports are in good condition for digital scanning
Be prepared for biometric data collection on their first trip after October 12, 2025
The system aims to make future border crossings faster and more secure, but the initial implementation period may involve longer wait times as travelers and border officers adjust to the new process.