New Europe Border Checks: What Malaysians Need to Know About EES

Yvonne Lai
Oct 12
2 min read

Europe is rolling out a new border system called the Entry/Exit System (EES) starting 12 October 2025. This will gradually replace passport stamping for non-EU visitors, including Malaysians, across Schengen countries.

What You Need to Do

Biometric passport required – EES will scan your fingerprints and take a facial image.
Register at the border – the process happens automatically when you enter or exit.
Follow the rules – the system tracks your stay (max 90 days in 180). Overstays will be flagged.
Plan for queues – during rollout, border checks may take longer.

How EES Affects Your Travel Experience

The EES system brings both changes and (potential) benefits. Here’s what to expect:

Area	Before EES	Under EES	Implications for You
Passport stamping	You receive a stamp each time you enter or exit the Schengen area	Stamps will gradually be phased out across all borders by April 2026.	You’ll lose that visual “souvenir” stamp, but border crossings may become more automated
Border checks	Manual checks by immigration officers	Biometric scanning + automated checks	Possibly faster and more consistent border control but initial rollout may see hiccups
Detection of overstays	More difficult to track precisely	EES helps authorities monitor the exact dates and detect overstays	Greater compliance scrutiny: travellers must adhere strictly to allowed durations
Denied entry / refusals	Based on existing visa rules, documents, admissibility	If you refuse biometric capture, entry may be denied	Don’t refuse scans, or you may be turned away
Privacy & data	Minimal biometric collection on entry/exit	Biometric + travel record stored in secure systems	Data protection laws (e.g. GDPR) apply; data is not used beyond immigration purposes

EES vs ETIAS: What’s the Difference?

EES – tracks when and where you enter/exit, with biometrics taken at the border.
ETIAS – a separate pre-travel authorisation (online application with fee) launching in late 2026, required for Malaysians visiting without a visa.

In short:

From Oct 2025: EES biometric checks at borders.
From late 2026: ETIAS approval needed before travel (for visa-exempt Malaysians).

Travel Tip

Keep your biometric passport ready, arrive early at borders, and watch for updates. Sedunia Travel will guide you on the latest requirements so your European holiday stays smooth and stress-free.