28 April 2026 EU's Entry - Exit System fully operational as of 10 April 2026 On 10 April 2026, the European Union’s Entry/Exit System (EES) became fully operational across 29 Schengen countries, marking a significant shift in how short stays by non-EU nationals are recorded and monitored. The system replaces manual passport stamping with digital entry and exit records and introduces mandatory biometric data collection (facial image and fingerprints) at the EU’s external borders. While the EES aims to modernize border management and improve enforcement of the 90-days-in-180 rule, the first weeks of full operation have resulted in substantial delays at major airports, including missed flights and extended queues at border controls. These disruptions present immediate risks for employers relying on time-sensitive business travel to and within the Schengen Area. A Tax Alert prepared by EY's People Advisory Services, and attached below, provides additional details. Document ID: 2026-0949 |
