The new European Entry/Exit System (EES) officially came into operation today at Palma Airport, marking a major shift in how travellers from outside the Schengen Area are processed. The digital border-control system, which replaces traditional passport stamping, is now being used in Mallorca for the first time.
The rollout in Palma follows its initial launch at Madrid Barajas Airport, where 1,819 passengers were registered on the system during its first day of operation. Palma Airport is now joining the phased national and European rollout, with the system set to be fully operational across all Schengen countries within the next six months.
Under the new EES, non-EU travellers will have their biometric data collected, including facial scans and fingerprints. This information is stored alongside passport details, travel history, and entry/exit records in a shared EU database accessible to all Schengen member states. The goal is to modernise border management, prevent identity fraud, curb illegal overstays, and streamline checks by replacing manual passport stamps with a fully digital system.
During a traveller’s first entry, they must scan their passport, register fingerprints, and have a facial image captured. For future trips, facial recognition will usually be enough. Children under 12 only require a photograph, and registration is free of charge. The system is being rolled out gradually, so not all passengers will be asked to register immediately, and the equipment may not always be active. British citizens living in Spain who hold a valid TIE card are not required to register with the EES.
The Schengen Area currently includes 29 countries—every EU member except Ireland and Cyprus, plus Norway, Switzerland, Iceland and Liechtenstein. The system will be used at airports, seaports and land borders across all participating nations. Full EU-wide implementation is set for 10 April 2026, the date on which the system becomes mandatory.
Authorities expect the introduction to run smoothly, although some queues or delays may occur during the first weeks as travellers get used to the process. Border officers will be able to temporarily slow or suspend checks if congestion builds. The UK government has already advised British holidaymakers to allow extra time when travelling, especially during peak periods such as Easter 2026 and the following summer.
Looking ahead, British citizens will also need a new European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) approval, similar to the US ESTA. However, ETIAS is not expected to come into force until late 2026, giving travellers time to prepare for the next phase of Europe’s “smart borders” upgrade.