The Entry/Exit System (EES) is now fully operational across all border crossing points in Norway and the Schengen Area, requiring non-EU nationals to register their biometric data upon arrival.
Two European border control systems affect most non-EU citizens travelling to Norway for short stays: the Entry/Exit System (EES), which is now fully operational, and the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), which is expected to begin operating in the last quarter of 2026.
What is the EES?
The Entry/Exit System (EES) is an automated data system for registering non-EU nationals who enter Europe for a short stay. For the purpose of the EES, a 'non-EU national' means a traveller who is not a national of any European Union country, or of Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, or Switzerland.
The EES replaces manual passport stamps for non-EU travellers entering the Schengen Area. The EES applies to visitors with short-stay visas or visa-free entry for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
When a traveller enters the Schengen Area for the first time, their identity, travel document data, and biometric information (facial image and fingerprints) will be registered. On later entries, this information will be used to verify identity. The system will also log the time and place of entry and exit, and any refusals of entry.
The EES is now fully operational across all border crossing points in Norway and the Schengen Area.
More information on the EES is available on the European Union's EES website and Politiet.no.
What is ETIAS?
Another new EU program relating to border control is the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), a visa waiver program for non-EU citizens.
Today, citizens from around 60 countries can travel to the Schengen Area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa. Under the new ETIAS rules, these travellers will need to apply online for a travel authorisation before their trip.
ETIAS is expected to begin operating in the last quarter of 2026. The exact start date has not yet been confirmed.
You can learn more about ETIAS on the European Union's ETIAS website.
FAQs about the new rules
1. What are the new entry rules for Europe?
Travellers will need ETIAS authorisation before entry once the system is launched. The Entry/Exit System (EES) is now fully operational and travellers are registered upon entry.
2. Do I need a visa to travel to Europe?
You do not need a visa if you are from a visa-free country, but you must apply for ETIAS once it has been launched.
3. What is ETIAS?
ETIAS is a quick online travel authorisation, not a visa.
4. How long is the ETIAS valid?
ETIAS will be valid for 3 years or until your passport expires.
5. Which countries require ETIAS?
All Schengen Area countries, including Norway, Iceland and Switzerland will be introducing ETIAS.
6. When do the new rules come into effect?
EES is now fully operational across the Schengen Area, while ETIAS is expected to begin operating in the last quarter of 2026. The exact start date has not yet been confirmed.
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