The Internal Security System will ensure the national coordination of the new technological platform for monitoring entries and exits within the Schengen Area.
From 12 October 2025, Portugal will take part in the entry into operation of the Entry/Exit System (EES), the new European automated border control system for the Schengen Area’s external borders. This system will replace the traditional passport stamps with centralized electronic records. This entry into operation will take place simultaneously and in stages over almost six months in all the countries of the Schengen area, in accordance with the rules established by the European Commission.
The system applies to all non-EU citizens entering the territory for short stays (up to 90 days within any 180-day period), regardless of whether a visa is required.
The EES aims to strengthen security within the European Union, improve the efficiency of border controls, and ensure a stricter and technological management of the entry and exit of third-country nationals in the Schengen Area.
What will change with the EES:
- Electronic registration of entries and exits of third-country travellers, including the date, time and border crossing point.
- Collection of biometric data (four fingerprints and a facial image) on first entry.
- Automatic detection of overstays in the Schengen Area.
- Centralized system and interoperable with other European security databases (such as SIS II, VIS4EES).
In Portugal, the Internal Security System (SSI) coordinates the implementation of the EES, in close cooperation with the Public Security Police (PSP), the National Republican Guard (GNR), ANA Airports, port administrations and the National Civil Aviation Authority (ANAC). Through the Borders and Foreigners Coordination Unit (UCFE), the SSI ensured interoperability between national and European systems, guaranteeing that Portuguese border posts - both maritime and air - are technically prepared to collect and verify biometric data (fingerprints and facial image) and to share information in real-time with other Member States.
Security benefits:
- More efficient border control, particularly at international airports and seaports.
- Increased internal security, with improved detection of false identities, use of fraudulent documentation, irregular entries and cross-border threats, preventing trafficking in human beings and assisting unlawful immigration.
- Better management of immigration, by enabling real-time monitoring of migration flows and the stay of third-country nationals.
- Increased response capacity of the authorities, thanks to the detailed and reliable information provided by the system.
Compared to the current system, which relies on manual stamping of passports, the EES will make it possible to detect false documents, irregular entries, and other security threats more quickly, thereby reinforcing the protection of external border and improving cooperation and automatic data sharing between Member States.
With the EES, Portugal and the European Union will have a digital, secure and interoperable system that puts the country at the forefront of smart border management.
With this technological transition, the Internal Security System, in coordination with the Border Authorities, is reinforcing its commitment to protecting the external borders and the security of all those who live, work or visits Portugal and the European Union.
Data protection: The EES complies with European and national standards for the protection of personal data, ensuring that travellers’ information is handled with total security and confidentiality.