EU Entry/Exit System (EES): Passport Stamps Are Ending – What Lebanon Travelers Need to Know

EU Entry/Exit System (EES): Passport Stamps Are Ending – What Lebanon Travelers Need to Know

EU Entry/Exit System (EES): Passport Stamps Are Ending – What Lebanon Travelers Need to Know

 22 Aug, 2025

EU Entry/Exit System (EES): Passport Stamps Are Ending — What Lebanon Travelers Need to Know

Starting October 12, 2025, Europe begins rolling out the Entry/Exit System (EES) and will gradually phase out passport stamps across 29 countries. For travelers from Lebanon, EES means faster, biometric border checks and new data capture (facial image, fingerprints, entry/exit records) when crossing external Schengen borders. Full implementation is expected by April 10, 2026. (Source: Travel + Leisure, Aug 6, 2025)

What is the EES and who does it affect?

EES is a digital border system for non-EU nationals traveling short-stay to the Schengen area. It replaces physical stamps with electronic records, improving security and reducing queues. Countries adopting EES include Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland.

How it changes your trip from Lebanon

  • No more ink stamps: expect biometric capture on first entry post-launch, plus automated entry/exit logs.
  • Border timing: first-time EES enrollment may add a few minutes; later crossings should be quicker.
  • Documents: valid passport, visas if applicable; ensure passport validity and biometrics readiness.

Other countries moving to digital borders

The UK has launched its Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA); the US is expanding TSA facial recognition; and Australia, Singapore, Hong Kong, Argentina already operate without routine passport stamps. (Source: T+L)

Practical tips & how we can help

  • Check airline and airport guidance before you fly.
  • Allow extra time on your first EES visit.
  • Keep confirmations (hotels/insurance/itineraries) handy in case of questions.
  • We can plan your trip and advise requirements — contact our Beirut team.

Related trips from Lebanon

Explore our European packages: Prague City Break, Vienna Christmas Markets, Istanbul, Cyprus (Ayia Napa/Limassol).

FAQs

Do I still get my passport stamped?

No. With EES, most non-EU travelers will not receive manual stamps; the system logs entries/exits electronically.

When does EES start and finish rolling out?

Rollout starts Oct 12, 2025 and is expected to be fully live by Apr 10, 2026. (T+L)

Is ETIAS also required?

ETIAS (a separate pre-travel authorisation) is expected in a later phase; timelines are managed by the EU and may change. Check before booking.

“Published Aug 6, 2025,