What changed
The European Union has replaced manual passport stamping with a digital Entry/Exit System (EES). It records every entry and exit of non-EU travellers on short stays in the 29 Schengen countries, and it calculates your 90 days in any 180-day period automatically.
The rollout began on 12 October 2025 and the system has been fully operational since 10 April 2026.
Who it applies to
EES applies to non-EU nationals on short stays, whether or not they need a visa. That includes every Pakistani travelling on a Schengen visit, family or business visa, and Pakistanis living in Dubai or elsewhere in the UAE.
Holders of long-stay national visas (for example a student visa) or EU residence permits are not registered in EES.
What happens at the border
On your first entry, border officers scan your passport and take your facial image and fingerprints. Children under 12 give a photo only. On later trips your record is checked instead of stamping your passport.
There is nothing to do before you travel, but expect the first entry to take a little longer, so allow extra time at the airport.
Why this matters for your next visa
EES makes overstays visible immediately. Even one day over your permitted stay is recorded and can lead to refusals in future applications. Respecting the exact dates on your visa has never been more important.
A clean travel record is one of the strongest parts of a future Schengen, UK or Canada file. A.Z Migration plans your itinerary so your dates, bookings and visa validity match exactly.
Sources
- France Diplomacy: EES goes live on 10 April 2026
- Government of Poland: EES fully operational from 10 April 2026
Visa and admission rules change often. This article reflects the rules on the date above. Book a free consultation to get the current requirements for your case.