Navigating Europe’s New Border Systems and the new EU digtial entry and exit system due to start in 2025: What Travelers to Spain Need to Know
The European Union is set to introduce two groundbreaking border management systems—the Entry/Exit System (EES) and the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS)—to enhance security and streamline travel. Here’s how these changes will impact visitors to Spain and other EU destinations.
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In this post we cover the following: (click any section to see its content)
EU digtial entry & exit system due to start in 2025:
- ENTRY/EXIT SYSTEM (EES) KEY DETAILS »
- WHO IS EXEMPT FROM THE EES »
- HOW IT WORKS »
- ETIAS: VISA-FREE TRAVEL AUTHORIZATION »
- TIMELINE AND IMPLICATIONS FOR TIPS FOR SUCCESS »
- EFECTS FOR TRAVELERS TO SPAIN »
- WHY THESE CHANGES MATTER »
- ALL TYPES OF RESIDENCY AVAILABLE IN SPAIN »
- SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT WITH A SOLICITOR »
ENTRY/EXIT SYSTEM (EES) KEY DETAILS:
- Launch Date: Expected in 2025 (exact timeline TBA).
- Purpose: Automate border checks by recording biometric data (fingerprints, facial scans) and tracking entry/exit dates for non-EU travelers.
WHO IS EXEMPT FROM THE EES?:
- EU/EEA nationals, plus residents of Cyprus and Ireland.
- Non-EU nationals with EU family residence permits.
- Researchers, students, au pairs, and intra-corporate transferees.
- Holders of long-stay visas, residency permits, or local border traffic permits.
- Nationals of Andorra, Monaco, San Marino, and Vatican/Holy See passport holders.
- Diplomats, cross-border workers, and specific transit crews.
HOW IT WORKS:
- Biometric registration occurs automatically at EU external borders (replacing passport stamps).
- Applies to 29 Schengen countries (excluding Cyprus and Ireland).
ETIAS: VISA-FREE TRAVEL AUTHORIZATION:
Purpose: Pre-screen visa-exempt travelers for security risks.
Scope: Mandatory for visitors from 60+ visa-free countries (e.g., U.S., Canada, Australia).
Application Process:
- Submit personal data, travel history, and security-related details online (€7 fee).
- No biometrics required.
- Approval valid for 3 years or until passport expiry.
Key Difference from EES:
- ETIAS is a pre-trip requirement; EES is a border registration tool.
TIMELINE AND IMPLICATIONS FOR SPAIN:
- EES Launches First: Operational by 2025, impacting air, land, and sea borders.
- ETIAS Follows: Expected a few months after EES goes live.
EFECTS FOR TRAVELERS TO SPAIN:
- Prepare for longer border queues during EES rollout.
- ETIAS applicants should apply at least 72 hours before departure.
WHY THESE CHANGES MATTER:
Both systems aim to:
- Strengthen EU border security.
- Reduce illegal overstays.
- Simplify entry for pre-approved travelers.
ALL TYPES OF RESIDENCY AVAILABLE IN SPAIN:
- Digital-Nomad visa Spain (Remote worker in Spain)
- Non-Lucrative visa Spain (Spanish visa non lucrative)
- Student-Visa Permit (Student-Visa & up-to 30 hours work per week)
- Self-Employed visa Spain (Self employed expats in Spain)
Please see-here our video-blog with options and legal-advice to obtain residency in Spain.
Remember that immigration procedures and immigration regulations change regularly, so it’s crucial to stay updated with the latest information from reliable sources. If you have specific questions or concerns about your situation, it’s advisable to consult with immigration authorities or legal professionals specializing in immigration matters, to do this, please click-here »
DO YOU REQUIRE ASSISTANCE TO APPLY FOR RESIDENCE OR CITIZENSHIP IN SPAIN?
We are a Spanish Solicitor and assist our clients with all types Spanish legal processes.
Permanent residency is obtained after 5 years of Spanish Residency through Digital-Nomad, Student-Visa, Non-Lucrative Residency or Self-Employed Residency. This followed by 5 years as a permanent resident in Spain and means you can then obtain Spanish Citizenship with a Spanish Passport.
