The new rules for entry into the European Union will come into effect this autumn. The system will affect 700 million travellers each year. Find out how it will affect tourism and what you need to know about the EES system

An insurance policy is a guarantee of your safety and peaceful stay outside of Ukraine

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The European Commission has for the first time officially confirmed the launch date for the new EU Entry/Exit System (EES). We tell you when it will be operational and how it will affect travelling.

In a speech at eu-LISA, European Commissioner for Home Affairs Ilva Johansson said that the EES will go live on 10 November 2024.

‘Legislatively, different steps are needed before the Commission can take a formal decision, but I am proud to announce today that 10 November is the final day,’ she said.

The EU is now finalising the testing phase of the system.

What is the EES system?

The EU's EES (Entry/Exit System) is an electronic system designed to record entries and exits of non-EU third-country nationals across the external borders of the Schengen area. The aim of the system is to improve border management, enhance security, combat illegal migration and optimise the operation of the visa system.

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The main functions of the EES system are

Entry and exit registration: The system records data on travellers' entry and exit, including the date, place of border crossing, and information on the document used to cross the border.

Stay counting: EES automatically calculates how long a traveller stays in the Schengen area, which helps to comply with the rules regarding maximum stay (e.g. 90 days in a 180-day period).

Detection of infringements: The system allows automatic detection of overstays in the Schengen area, which facilitates the work of border guards and prevents infringements.

Information exchange: The EES system is integrated with other EU databases such as the Visa Information System (VIS) and the EU Citizen Information System (SIS), providing a more complete and accurate understanding of the movements of third-country nationals.

The system aims to modernise border management, prevent illegal migration into the bloc and protect European citizens. EES will also help identify those in the EU, as well as those attempting to enter the EU on false documents.

Once the system is launched, all foreign nationals will have to register with the system. Travellers' data will be stored in a secure database for three years. This means that travellers will not have to go through the registration process every time they enter and leave the bloc.

We would like to point out that lawyers from Visit Ukraine are always available to assist citizens in gathering documents to enter their desired country. Follow the link and get personalised assistance from professionals in their field.

Also do not forget that any trip abroad requires a careful approach to your own safety. An insurance policy is exactly what can help you save money in case of health emergencies. If you are looking for an insurance policy with guaranteed coverage and an extensive claims package, then click here.

We remind you! September is the period when tourist locations become less crowded and hotels and airfares offer more affordable prices. Autumn is gradually coming into its own, bringing cooler weather, bright colours and a special atmosphere. Read more about the best destinations for a September trip here.