From 12 October 2025, the EU introduced a new Entry/Exit System (EES). This replaces passport stamping and records your entry and exit electronically. EES applies to non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens travelling into the Schengen Area from outside it.
EES is being gradually rolled out by border authorities and will come into full effect in April 2026, but you may already experience these changes at some airports as the system is introduced.
You’ll go through EES checks if you’re flying from:
UK, Ireland, Cyprus, Morocco, Jordan, Israel, Albania, Montenegro, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Serbia, Türkiye, or Egypt into a Schengen country.
Where does EES apply?
At the external borders of all Schengen countries including most EU nations plus Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein.
If you’re denied entry, this is due to EU policy, not Ryanair rules. Check your destination’s requirements before you travel.
What Should I Expect at Passport Control?
- Queues may be longer while airports switch to the new system.
- These delays may affect all passengers, not just non-EU nationals, as airports adjust to new checks and processes.
- Have your passport ready and follow EES signs.
- Affected passengers will be asked to scan your fingerprints or have a photo taken.
Once registered, future trips will be quicker; you’ll just be verified instead of re-registered.
We recommend arriving at the airport with extra time to allow for these additional checks, especially during busy travel periods.