Travelling to Europe: Biometric Border Checks, ETIAS and Your Schengen Visa

Entry/Exit System (EES): in use now

Since 10 April 2026, the EES has been fully running at the external borders of all Schengen countries. The first time you enter, border staff record your fingerprints and a face photo. After that, the system logs each entry and exit electronically instead of stamping your passport.

• It applies to non-EU visitors on short stays (up to 90 days in any 180 days), with or without a visa.
• It does not apply to people holding a long-stay (national D) visa or a residence permit, such as most international students.
• Allow extra time at the border on your first trip.

ETIAS: not for Saudi or Pakistani passport holders

ETIAS is a new online travel authorisation for people who can visit Europe without a visa. It is expected to start in late 2026, with a transition period before it becomes mandatory. Saudi and Pakistani citizens need a Schengen visa for short visits, so ETIAS does not apply to them. You keep applying for a Schengen visa as before.

Saudi residents: longer Schengen visas

Since April 2024, Saudi nationals living in Saudi Arabia who qualify for a Schengen visa can be issued a multiple-entry visa valid for up to 5 years, even on a first application. The 90-days-in-180 rule still applies, and the visa ends 3 months before your passport expires. Make sure your passport has plenty of validity when you apply.

Studying in Europe?

A Schengen visitor visa is not a study visa. For a full degree, you need a national long-stay student visa from the country where you will study, such as Germany or France. Apply for it after you receive your admission letter.

Common questions