The new EU Entry/Exit System (EES) is now live. Get the truth about it: debunking myths about visas, insurance, fees and border crossings for non-EU travellers

The new European Entry/Exit System (EES) launched on October 12, 2025, and with it came a lot of questions and rumors.

We debunk the most common myths so that travelers from non-EU countries know what to expect.

The new EES entry-exit system will start operating in Europe on October 12, 2025. Read here who needs to register, what biometric data is collected, how the control process works, how to prepare for your trip and much more useful information.

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Myth 1: Tourists must have health insurance

There is a common misconception that after the system is introduced, all visitors to the EU will have to prove their health insurance when crossing the border. In fact, the EES does not require this. Passengers only need to provide basic information about their travel plans, and insurance remains recommended but not mandatory.

For those travelling from Europe and the UK (as part of Brexit), there are alternatives such as the Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), which allows you to receive essential healthcare in the EU and Switzerland on the same terms as local residents.

Myth 2: You will need to apply for a new visa after the launch of the EES

Short-term trips to the Schengen area (up to 90 days in a 180-day period) do not require a visa, unless you previously required one. The EES only automates the digital registration of entry and exit, simplifying the control of the duration of stay and border security.

This should not be confused with the upcoming ETIAS system, which will be launched in late 2026 and will require online prior authorisation for visa-free travel.

Myth 3: The EES is payback for Brexit

Some believe that the EES is targeting British travellers as revenge for Brexit. In fact, the system is designed for all non-EU visitors to ensure that short-term stays in the Schengen area are respected.

British citizens will still have to follow separate rules when travelling after Brexit, but the EES does not change these requirements. The system was planned long before the UK left the EU and has a pan-European application.

Myth 4: The EES applies to everyone, including EU citizens

The EES only applies to travellers from non-EU countries, both visa-free countries and those requiring a visa for short-term stays. EU citizens, as well as holders of long-term Schengen visas or residence permits, do not pass through the EES.

Students, volunteers, exchange students, cross-border workers and some other categories of persons are also exempt from the EES.

Myth 5: The EES will incur additional border fees

The EES itself does not involve any additional fees. The fee will only apply to the future ETIAS system, which will require a one-off fee of around €20 for pre-authorisation of travel from 2026.

Travellers under 18 and over 70, as well as family members of EU citizens, are exempt from this fee.

Myth 6: Border crossings will become more difficult

There may be some initial delays while border guards and travellers get used to the new procedures. In the long term, the EES is intended to make controls faster and more efficient through automation, biometric systems and self-service kiosks.

Data will be stored in the system for three years, during which time biometric re-registration will be minimal.

Myth 7: The EES will collect all personal information

The EES only collects the data necessary for entry and exit control: passport data, travel dates and biometrics (fingerprints and facial images). Other personal information, such as daily movements or activities, is not tracked. The data is protected by strict EU privacy rules and is only stored for a limited period.

The new EES is not a punishment or an additional barrier for travelers. It is designed to make border controls faster, safer and more efficient, while maintaining a balance between security and convenience. The main thing to remember: insurance remains recommended and short-term visa-free travel remains the same as before. Plan your trip, check your documents and enjoy your trip without unnecessary worries.

The new rules for crossing EU borders can raise many questions - from the nuances of registering in the EES to choosing the type of visa or preparing documents for a long-term stay.

Visit World migration specialists will help you:

- find out whether you need registration in the EES system, a visa or a residence permit;

- prepare a package of documents for a short or long-term trip;

- get advice on working, studying or reuniting your family in Europe;

- avoid mistakes that can lead to a refusal of entry.

Get individual advice from a Visit World migration expert - and be sure that your trip to Europe will be stress-free.

Reminder! The EU has increased the fee for ETIAS to 20 euros. We have already told you who must pay the fee, who is exempted, when the system will start working and how to correctly apply for a permit to travel to the Schengen zone.

Photo by Freepik

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