Starting on October 12, 2025, the new Entry/Exit System (EES) will become operational at all border crossing points in Latvia. The system will simplify travel to Europe for third-country nationals on short-stay visits. The new system will be more modern and efficient than the current procedure, as it will gradually replace passport stamps with a digital system that registers a person's entry, exit, and denied entry, thereby accelerating border checks and easing the work of border guards.
The EES will record third-country nationals' biometric data (fingerprints and facial images), data from travel documents, and travel dates. The system's operation will enhance security within the Schengen Area, as border guards and law enforcement agencies will have access to important information about travelers, helping to identify security risks.
It should be noted that the EES will be introduced in stages, with full system operation to be ensured by April 10, 2026. Until then, third-country nationals crossing the external borders of Latvia and other European countries will still have their passports stamped with entry and exit stamps, and their data will also be registered in the EES. Similarly, the automatic stay-duration calculator will not be active during the transition period. This approach will help ensure a gradual transition and allow border control points to fully adapt to the new system. The full implementation of EES functionality in all European countries (after April 10, 2026) will allow for the elimination of passport stamps and for European member states to electronically exchange traveler information.
The EES is intended for short-stay purposes—a stay of up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This period is calculated collectively for all European countries using the EES. Registration in the EES is required for third-country nationals who travel with a short-stay visa to European countries using the EES, or for those who travel without a visa for a short stay in these countries.
The system will be gradually implemented in 29 European countries.
More information about the EES is available at: https://travel-europe.europa.eu.
The Entry/Exit System is co-financed by the European Union.
