Launch of the New Biometric Control System in the EU

Starting October 12, the European Union is introducing a new biometric control system (EES) at the external borders of EU and Schengen countries. These new regulations will affect citizens from third countries, including Ukraine. This was highlighted by the State Border Guard Service.

New Entry Rules to the EU: What Will Change

The new control system will be implemented in phases. It will apply at the borders with EU member states - Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, and Romania. 
“The EES system will apply to all third-country nationals (including Ukrainians) crossing the external borders of the Schengen Zone for short stays (up to 90 days within a 180-day period),” the State Border Guard Service reported. 
After the launch of the EES, during the first entry into the Schengen Zone, individuals will be required to undergo enhanced registration. This process will include collecting biometric data - a facial image and four fingerprints. 
However, subsequent border crossings are expected to become quicker, as biometric data will be verified against already existing digital information, and the system will automatically record the date, time, and entry/exit location.

What is the EES System and How Does It Work?

What changes are coming for Ukrainians crossing borders in 2025. 
The EES entry and exit registration system will be implemented not only in EU member countries but also in Schengen Agreement states, such as Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland. Cyprus and Ireland, while part of the EU, are exceptions - these countries will not join the EES system.
This system will eliminate the need for traditional passport control with stamping. Instead, the traveler registration process will be automated through self-service kiosks, similar to those already used in airports for boarding pass verification.
Each time travelers cross the border - in either direction - they will scan their passports or other travel documents. The EES system will record personal data, including biometric parameters, name, date, and place of border crossing. This requires the use of biometric documents to pass through the border.
The process of facial recognition and fingerprint scanning will be conducted once every three years. The collected data will be valid for multiple trips during this period and will be stored in an electronic database for three years after each journey.