The European Entry/Exit System has become fully operational

On 10 April 2026, the implementation process of the European Entry/Exit System (EES) was completed, and the system became fully operational in all European countries applying the relevant regulations, including Hungary.

As outlined in our previous newsletter, the gradual introduction of the EES System at Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport began on 18 November 2025 (while at Debrecen International Airport and Hévíz–Balaton Airport in Sármellék, the rollout took place between 18–20 November 2025). Earlier, from 12 October 2025, the gradual introduction of the system also started at Beregsurány on the Ukrainian–Hungarian border, and later on the Serbian–Hungarian border sections.
During the initial phase of the rollout, the system had to be applied to 10% of border crossings by third-country nationals; following the gradual introduction phase, as of 10 April 2026, the system must now be applied in all cases.

The EES is an automated IT system designed to register third-country nationals traveling for short-term stays (not exceeding 90 days within any 180-day period) each time they cross the external borders of the Schengen Area using the system. The data of third-country nationals traveling visa-free as well as those traveling with a visa are recorded. However, holders of residence permits are exempt from the use of the system.

Under the rules of the EES, border control also includes the collection of biometric data (facial image and fingerprints). Upon first entry, the passport control officer creates an individual file for the third-country national, which records the biometric data, the information contained in the travel document, the place and time of border crossing, as well as the place and reason for any refusal of entry, if applicable.
The system stores the data for three years (or five years in cases where the individual has overstayed the permitted period of stay).

What Data Does the EES Store?

• data contained in the travel document
• the place and time of border crossings
• the individual’s facial image and fingerprints
• the place of any refusal of entry

With the full implementation of the EES system, the duration of border checks may temporarily increase, and waiting times may occur at major border crossing points.

The primary objective of the EES is to protect the external borders and prevent illegal immigration; however, it also facilitates the identification of individuals who do not meet the conditions of stay. As the system records the dates of entry and exit of third-country nationals and calculates the authorized duration of stay, the introduction of the system requires even greater attention to compliance with permitted stay periods in order to avoid overstaying and related sanctions.
For any questions that may arise, it may be advisable to seek expert assistance.