Entry/Exit System (EES)
What is EES?
The EES (Entry/Exit System) is a digital system of the European Union intended for the management of external borders for third-country nationals (persons who are not EU/EEA or Swiss citizens).
Instead of the old manual stamping of passports, the EES uses biometric technologies: upon first entry or exit from the Schengen Area, passport data, a photograph and fingerprints will be recorded. The system automatically records the date and place of entry/exit and any refusals of entry. Complete and up-to-date information on the EES can be found by accessing: https://travel-europe.europa.
Why is the EES being introduced?
The EES has two main objectives:
- Increasing border security and preventing irregular migration, identity fraud and overstaying.
- Simplifying and streamlining border controls — checks will be faster and safer for authorities and travelers.
The system also allows the use of automated controls (self-service),
which can reduce waiting time at the border.
When and how to apply EES
The system became operational on October 12, 2025 and the implementation is being done progressively, over a period of approximately 6 months.
By 10 April 2026, the EES will permanently replace the manual stamping of passports at all external border crossings of the Schengen Area.
The rules apply at all types of external borders — airports, land points or ports — for non-EU travellers coming for short stays.
What does this mean for passengers at Cluj International Airport?
- If you are a non-EU citizen, upon arrival or departure from/to Cluj Airport, you will be checked through the EES. This involves scanning your passport and, at
first pass, biometrics collection (photo + fingerprints). - After the introduction of the EES, the stamp in the passport will no longer be used — records will be electronic.
- Control will be faster and safer, helping to prevent overstaying.
- For EU citizens or those not affected by the EES, the procedures remain unchanged.
Recommendations for travelers
- Make sure your passport is valid; the data will be taken over into the EES system.
- At the first crossing of a border point after the implementation of the EES, allocate some extra time for biometric collection.
- Check the updated information on the EES before you travel, as the transition to the digital system is gradual.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ - EES) on the Entry/Exit System (EES) Who is covered by the EES?
All non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens travelling for short stays (up to 90 days in any 180-day period).
No. Registration will be exclusively electronic.
Scanning your passport and collecting biometrics takes a few minutes, and subsequent checks will be faster.
No, just have a valid passport. The system is managed by the border authorities, without any additional action from the passengers.
