What does the implementation of the new system mean in practice? When entering the Schengen area, citizens of non-EU countries will be required to provide digital data, fingerprints and facial images. This method will replace the manual stamping of passports.
On their first trip to any of the 30 Schengen countries, non-EU foreigners will need to register their biometric data, namely a face image and four fingerprints, at special border control points at airports or ports. This will create a digital record that is valid for three years.
After registration, travelers re-entering the Schengen area during this three-year period will only need to verify their identity using fingerprints or facial recognition during entry and exit. Prior submission of biometric data before leaving your country is not required: all data is collected upon arrival in the Schengen area.
The implementation will take place in stages, and it is expected that the entire system will be fully operational by April 9, 2026. During the transition period, some travelers will continue to have their passport stamped, while only some will have their biometric data collected.
Source: Travel and Tour World
