Introduction of the Entry-Exit System: A new era of border controls
On 12 October 2025, Vienna Schwechat Airport marked the beginning of a new era in border control. The Entry-Exit System (EES) was introduced, a revolutionary IT system that enables the recording of entries and exits of third-country nationals during short stays in the Schengen Area. But what does this mean for Austria and Europe?
What is the Entry-Exit System?
The Entry-Exit System is an EU-wide system for the electronic recording of entries and exits. It replaces traditional manual passport stamping with an automated collection of personal data, travel document data, and biometric features such as fingerprints and facial images. The aim is to increase the efficiency and security of border controls, prevent overstays, and combat the misuse of identities and documents.
Historical background and the path to introduction
The idea of such a system is not new. Efforts to better secure the Schengen borders have existed since the 1990s. Challenges from increasing travel traffic and security concerns led to the development of the EES, which is now being rolled out in several phases.
Austria plays a key role in this. At Vienna Schwechat Airport, one of the country's busiest airports, the phased pilot operation of the system was launched. By 10 April 2026 the system should be fully established, meaning that all entries and exits are to be recorded via this system.
Initial successes and impressive figures
Since the start, impressive progress has been made. According to Interior Minister Gerhard Karner, it is already evident in the introduction phase that residence and identity data can be processed more efficiently and potential security risks detected more quickly. Günther Ofner, CEO of Flughafen Wien AG, reports a smooth implementation and a capture rate that is continuously increasing.
- 12 October – 9 November 2025: 71,363 people (23.2 percent)
- 10 November – 9 December 2025: 105,220 people (31.5 percent)
- 10 December 2025 – 8 January 2026: 113,822 people (33.7 percent)
- 9 January – 8 February 2026: 117,957 people (63.7 percent)
In total, from October 2025 to February 2026 almost half a million third-country nationals were recorded, which corresponds to a daily average of around 3,500 travelers.
Comparison with other EU countries
While Austria is on schedule with the introduction of the EES, other EU countries show varying progress. Countries like Germany and France have implemented similar systems, but with differing success rates. In Germany, for example, there were technical challenges that delayed the process.
Impact on travelers' daily lives
For travelers, the new system means faster and more secure border controls. The digitization of processes reduces waiting times and increases the accuracy of controls. Experts emphasize that this is a considerable relief, especially for frequent travelers.
A look into the future
The full implementation of the EES by April 2026 is seen as a milestone in the history of European border control. Experts expect that the system will not only increase security but also strengthen cooperation between European security agencies.
Conclusion
The Entry-Exit System is a significant step toward modern and secure border controls. Austria plays a leading role in the implementation of this system, which not only increases security but also improves the efficiency of border checks. With a successful pilot operation and a steadily rising capture rate, the future looks bright.
