A six-month transition period commences on October 12. The complete shift to the electronic Entry/Exit System (EES), which will fully replace traditional manual passport stamps, is anticipated by April 10, 2026.
The new electronic Entry/Exit System (EES) is set to become operational in the Schengen Area starting October 12, directly impacting non-EU citizens, including Russians. Foreigners will be required to provide biometric data, such as fingerprints and facial photographs, via special terminals at the border. This data, along with travel document information, entry and exit dates and locations, and records of entry refusals, will be logged into the EES.
The data stored in the system will be accessible for three years. For subsequent visits, a simple facial scan will be sufficient for identity verification.
The European Commission has explained that the primary objective of the EES is to more effectively monitor individuals who overstay their permitted period, while also accelerating and enhancing the security of border control.
Yuri Pevzner, an expert in visa and migration issues, comments on how these changes will affect travel for Russian citizens:
According to Yuri Pevzner, the new procedure expands the use of biometric data. For Russians, who already provide biometrics for Schengen visas, this will not lead to fundamental changes. The main advantage is accelerated border processing through automated identification. He sees no significant pitfalls, noting that the system will enhance security by making it more difficult to pass with fraudulent documents, and will optimize the work of border services. No changes are foreseen in the visa application process itself.
The phased implementation of the EES will conclude by April 2026, when most EU member states are expected to have fully transitioned to the new system. Until then, in some countries, such as Germany, the practice of applying traditional passport stamps will continue.
Rupert Blackwood 
Clement Ashworth