As of October 12, 2025, the European Union is implementing a major change in entry formalities: non-European travelers will gradually be required to obtain a photo and the fingerprints at border crossings. This system, designed to modernize border control, raises both security expectations and practical concerns for passengers and airlines.
What biometric registration means at EU borders
According to Flywest, the new system is gradually replacing the traditional stamp on the passport non-European nationals through an automated biometric registration procedure. Kiosks and counters installed at entry points will collect the passport number, a photo and two fingerprints to build up a history of entry and exit dates. The official aim is to improve the detection of overstays and refusals of entry, while facilitating the sharing of information between member states.
Progressive deployment and operational alert points
Deployment is planned to be phased in gradually, to limit the risk of congestion at major airport hubs. Flywest specifies that some member states, including France, will start with partial controls, while smaller countries will apply the system more fully from the outset. The EU and the targeted Schengen states (Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Switzerland) are aiming to register 100 % arrivals by April 2026, which implies a rapid ramp-up of border infrastructure and personnel.
Expected impact on passenger flows and airlines
Several companies are concerned about the lengthening waiting time at border crossings, particularly during seasonal peaks. Flywest reports that the authorities are implementing deployment stages to limit queues, but the logistical adaptation of airports (buildings, kiosks, staff training) remains a major challenge. For airlines, the implications are both operational and commercial: boarding planning, enhanced customer information and reinforced coordination with border authorities.
Practical consequences for travellers
Non-European travelers will need to anticipate their formalities even further. In addition to presenting a valid passport, they will need to pass through biometric terminals. Having your passport number and travel documents at hand will speed up the process. In addition, the future ETIAS system, expected in 2026, will add to the formalities: this digital prior authorization will be aimed at nationals exempt from short-stay visas, and will require online entry of information prior to arrival.
Personal data, confidentiality and legal framework
The use offingerprints and photos naturally raises issues of data security and privacy. The authorities have indicated that data processing will be governed by strict European standards to guarantee data protection, limited collection purposes and controlled retention periods. Flywest stresses the importance of travelers being informed of their rights and the guarantees offered by the authorities at the time of implementation.
How to prepare for travel to the EU
To avoid unpleasant surprises, it is advisable to check the new requirements well before departure. Anticipating your passage through the airport, allowing sufficient time and checking the validity of your passport are now systematic steps. Tourist offices, carriers and airport managers will be offering dedicated communications during the ramp-up phase to guide passengers. The integration of biometrics into passenger flows is designed to make checks more reliable in the long term, but will require a period of adaptation shared by authorities, airlines and users.
Key information
Effective date : The system starts on October 12, 2025, with a gradual roll-out.
Target audience : non-European nationals, with the exception of the above, will be required to provide a photo and fingerprints at entry points.
Objective: modernize automated control borders, better identify entry and exit dates, prevent overstays and enhance security.
Deployment : progressive phases to avoid congestion; target of 100 % arrivals by April 2026.
More to come: ETIAS, a digital authorization expected in 2026, which will require a prior online application for visa-exempt travelers.
Practical tip: anticipate your arrival at the airport, check the validity of your passport and follow the communications of your airline and airports to find out about current procedures.
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