European countries have initiated the rollout of a new automated border control system, the Entry/Exit System (EES), which is set to transform how Canadian travellers enter the region. The system is anticipated to be fully operational by April 10, 2026, marking the end of traditional passport stamping for short-stay visitors from outside the European Union.
Who is Affected by the EES?
The EES applies to non-EU nationals, including Canadians, who are planning a short stay of up to 90 days within any 180-day period in the Schengen area. This zone encompasses most EU nations—excluding Ireland and Cyprus—and also includes Norway, Switzerland, Lichtenstein, and Iceland. It is crucial to note that the United Kingdom is not part of this system and operates its own Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), which costs approximately $18 CAD.
How the New Electronic System Works
The core function of the EES is to replace the manual stamping of passports with an electronic registration process. During an initial six-month phase, border officers will continue to stamp passports while simultaneously recording entries and exits digitally. This dual approach serves as a contingency for any technical difficulties that may arise.
Travellers with a valid e-passport, which Canada has been issuing since 2013, will primarily use self-serve kiosks at the border. At these kiosks, they will register their entry, after which a passport control officer—who will already have access to the submitted information—can conduct any necessary additional checks before granting or refusing entry.
Data Collection and the Rationale Behind EES
The system will collect biometric data, including fingerprints and facial images, at the point of entry. This information will be stored for a period of three years. The EES will also meticulously track overstays and denials of entry.
According to the European Union, the shift to automation is designed to shorten wait times by streamlining previously time-consuming manual passport checks. Furthermore, the system provides more precise tracking of the maximum authorized stay for visitors, making it significantly easier to identify individuals who have overstayed their welcome or are attempting to use fraudulent travel documents. The Government of Canada reminds travellers that entry decisions remain the sole purview of each destination country.
