The EU’s New Entry/Exit System (EES): Key Information for Travellers to Hungary

Starting 12 October 2025, the European Union will begin introducing a new, automated border control system for non-EU nationals entering the Schengen Area for short-term stays. This modern IT solution, known as the Entry/Exit System (EES), aims to strengthen security and streamline the border process across all participating countries.

 

✦ Implementation Timeline

The EES will be rolled out in phases across the 29 participating Schengen states. The transition period will last approximately six months, beginning on 12 October 2025. At Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport, the system’s deployment is scheduled to start on 18 November 2025, marking the beginning of Hungary’s gradual adoption of the new procedures.

 

✦ Who Will Need to Use the EES?

The new system applies to:

– Third-country nationals travelling to any EES country

– For short stays not exceeding 90 days within a 180-day period

 

The EES does not introduce new steps for travellers who enjoy freedom of movement within the European Union (e.g., EU/EEA/Swiss citizens).

 

✦ Important Practical Information for Passengers

To support smooth operations during the transition, departing passengers are advised to allow extra time for border control.

At Budapest Airport:

– The gate zone for outbound flights may appear on the display screens earlier than usual to reduce queues

– Travellers should proceed to the indicated zone as soon as it becomes visible.

– Gates for non-Schengen flights are located beyond the border control area, so following signage is essential.

 

✦ What to Expect During Border Control

Document Verification

Both arriving and departing non-EU travellers must present their travel documents at the border control booths.

Preparing required documents in advance — such as passport, boarding pass, and residence permit (if applicable) — helps speed up the process.

 

Biometric Registration

As part of the EES procedure, travellers will have to provide biometric data. This includes:

– a facial image, and

– fingerprints

 

Once these steps are completed and verified, passengers can proceed and continue their journey through the airport in the usual way.

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This article provides a professional summary of information published by Budapest Airport. Original information available at: Budapest Airport – European Entry/Exit System (EES) Information (bud.hu)

 

(For more information: https://travel-europe.europa.eu/pub)

 

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