EES Switzerland: Autumn 2024 Entry Checks – What Travellers Need to Know

Navigating Switzerland‘s New Entry System: What Travelers Need to Know (October 2025)

Switzerland⁣ is preparing for a ⁢significant change‍ to its border control procedures.⁢ Beginning⁣ in October 2025, the ‌country ​will implement the ‍European Union’s entry and ‍Exit system (EES), impacting travelers from outside the EU ⁣and Schengen Area. This comprehensive guide,⁤ brought to you by travel experts, will detail what you need to ‌know to ensure‌ a smooth entry into Switzerland.

What is the Entry and‌ Exit System ​(EES)?

The EES is a new, EU-wide database⁤ designed to modernize and strengthen border management.It registers the entry and exit ​of non-EU ​nationals ⁢traveling to the Schengen Area for‍ short stays. Think of it as an automated system to⁣ track who ⁢is entering and leaving, ​enhancing security and streamlining processes.

Who will Be Affected?

The EES primarily⁤ impacts travelers who are not citizens ⁣of the EU or Schengen Area. This includes visitors ⁤from countries like the United Kingdom, the United States, and Canada.

Here’s a breakdown:

* Affected Travelers: Non-EU/Schengen nationals.
* Exempt Travelers: EU and schengen citizens, and also non-EU residents legally ​residing in Switzerland or‌ other‍ Schengen ​countries. ⁣However, even ⁢exempt​ travelers ⁣may experience longer queues⁤ during the initial transition period.

What Will the Process look Like?

Upon arrival ‍at Swiss airports like Geneva and Zurich,⁣ you’ll encounter a new procedure. ⁤Here’s what to ‌expect:

1. Self-service Kiosks: You’ll first register at self-service kiosks, similar to‌ those found in Canada and the United States. Airport staff will⁢ be readily available to assist​ you. ‌This initial registration should take just one to two ​minutes.
2. Biometric Data Collection: Next, you’ll proceed to ⁢border control officers to provide your biometric data.This includes fingerprints ‍and⁢ a facial scan.
3. Digital Record: The‌ traditional ​entry stamp in ⁤your passport will be replaced with ⁣an electronic registration.

Why is This Happening?

The‍ EES offers several ‍key benefits:

* Enhanced Security: It helps⁣ identify individuals who are wanted⁣ or lack valid travel documents.
* Overstay⁤ Detection: The system automatically detects instances of overstaying the permitted 90-day limit within​ the Schengen Area.
* ​ Simplified Future Travel: Your data will be stored for three years. If you ⁣re-enter the Schengen Area within that timeframe,you won’t⁣ need to re-register – though you ⁢will still present your passport to ⁣an immigration officer.

What About⁣ Delays?

Both Geneva and Zurich airports⁢ anticipate longer entry times for non-EU/Schengen nationals, especially during the initial registration.​ Airports are ⁤launching information campaigns in the coming weeks to prepare travelers.

Crucial‌ Dates & What’s‌ Next:

*⁢ EES Launch: October 2025‌ (previously delayed from November 2024). The rollout will be⁢ phased, starting with at least one border crossing point in ⁤each member‍ state.
* Full Implementation: Within six months of the launch, the EES​ will be operational at​ all border⁤ points.
* ‌ ETIAS (European Travel Authorisation and Information​ System): Expected in the ​final quarter of 2026,ETIAS will⁤ require pre-travel authorization for visa-exempt travelers. ⁢Details and a phased rollout are still being finalized.

Where Can You Find More Information?

* Official EES Information: https://travel-europe.europa.eu/ees/to-whom-does-ees-not-apply##

* Overstaying in Switzerland: https://www.thelocal.ch/20221003/what-happens-if-you-overstay-your-90-day-limit-in-switzerland

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