Introduction of the European Entry/Exit System (EES)
The French Embassy in Tunisia issued a statement on Friday, October 10, 2025, on its official Facebook page, reminding the public of the gradual implementation of the European Entry/Exit System (EES) starting from October 12, 2025. This digital system will transform the modalities of crossing external borders of the Schengen area.
What is the European Entry/Exit System (EES)?
The EES is an electronic system designed by the European Union to make border controls faster, safer, and more automated for travelers from third countries, i.e., non-EU and non-Schengen countries. The system will replace the traditional manual stamping of passports with automatic electronic registration. Each time a border is crossed, data related to the date, place of entry or exit, and authorized stay duration will be recorded and stored in a secure European database.
Key Features of the EES
The EES will allow for better tracking of short-term stays, particularly stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period authorized for third-country nationals. Travelers will not need to take any action or fill out any forms, as information will be collected automatically during border control.
Objectives of the EES
The EES is part of a broader European strategy to modernize the management of external borders and strengthen security within the Schengen area. According to the European Commission, this system will help detect overstays, prevent identity-related fraud, and facilitate controls for frequent travelers.
Implementation of the EES
The European authorities ensure that the implementation of the EES will be gradual to guarantee a smooth adaptation of airports, ports, and land border crossing points.
Impact on Tunisian Citizens Traveling to Europe
For Tunisian citizens traveling to Europe, this reform does not change the conditions for obtaining a Schengen visa but modifies the control procedures upon arrival and departure.
Important Information for Travelers
Travelers are invited to check official information before their departure and consult the dedicated European website: https://travel-europe.europa.eu/fr/ees/ltr
Conclusion
The French Embassy in Tunisia emphasizes that this innovation aims to simplify travel while ensuring a high level of security, in line with European standards for personal data protection. It is also important to note that the introduction of the EES precedes the planned introduction in 2026 of the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS), which will require visa-exempt third-country nationals to request electronic authorization before their departure.
