Starting on 12 October, 2025, the new Entry/Exit System (EES) will require non-EU nationals to register their biometric data upon arrival at an external border crossing.
Two new European border control systems will be launched in 2025 and 2026, respectively, which will affect most non-EU citizens travelling to Norway for short stays: the Entry/Exit System (EES) and the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS).
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 will replace 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 will be gradually introduced starting on 12 October, 2025. During its initial six months, EES will only be introduced at selected border crossing points. Although this means that not all travellers will be registered immediately, some visitors entering Norway may be required to register as part of the phased rollout.
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 in 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 will be introduced in the second half of 2026, with more details set to be announced well in advance. 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?
Starting in the second half of 2026, travellers will need ETIAS authorisation before entry. From October 12, 2025, travellers will be registered in the Entry/Exit System (EES).
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 in 2026.
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 will be introduced from 12 October, 2025, while ETIAS is scheduled to be introduced in the second half of 2026.
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