There are new rules for travelling in Europe, with European border controls in force since 12 October in 29 European countries. 

Capturing the biometric data of non-EU and Schengen citizens

These new rules will provide for the use of the new digital Entry/Exit System (EES), which captures the biometric data of non-EU and Schengen citizens. EES digitally records entries and exits, as well as passport data, fingerprints and facial images of non-EU citizens (excluding those from Iceland, Lichtenstein, Norway and Switzerland) travelling for short stays in the EU Member States and the Schengen area. The system, the European Council explains, will “strengthen the security of the Schengen area and contribute to the prevention of irregular migration”: by digitally recording passport information and biometric data, it “can provide real-time information on compliance with the period of authorized stay”, as well as helping to “significantly reduce” identity fraud.

Milan and Rome are the first airports 

However, EES will be implemented gradually, between now and 9 April 2026. In Italy, the first airports to start with the new control systems in test form are Milan - both Linate and Malpensa - and Rome Fiumicino: electronic systems to detect fingerprints are being tested in these airports. They are followed by the ports of Civitavecchia and Genoa. The gradual entry of the system envisages that from 20 October checks will be carried out at all airports with a quota of 10% of passengers in transit at the borders, a percentage that will rise to 100% by 9 April. The system covers non-EU travellers staying for up to 90 days in a 180-day period each year for short holidays, business trips and cross-border travel in the Schengen area.

In 2026 it will be the turn of ETIAS

The year 2026 will bring further novelties for travellers in Europe: from next year on, the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) will come into force, Known as the Euro visa, to obtain it, it is necessary to register before travelling. In this case, it will be necessary to apply for the authorization online before leaving for Europe, paying €20 and it will remain valid for three years, or until your passport expires (minors under 18 and the over 70s are exempt from payment).