The EU Entry Exit System, known as EES, is now fully operational at external Schengen border crossings, according to the European Commission. It records entries and exits for non-EU nationals travelling for a short stay, using travel-document and biometric information.
The system is not a new residence status. A valid residence permit or long stay visa remains the key document for people who live in a Schengen country under those routes. Border checks still apply, but that category is not registered in EES.
Before travelling
Travellers should check the rules that apply to their passport, destination and purpose of travel. A short stay is generally not the same as moving for work, study or family reasons.
Keep your permit, visa or other relevant document accessible when travelling. The system can record that a person entered or left, but it does not decide an individual immigration case by itself.
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