Discover the security procedures and checks that apply to different categories of travellers entering or leaving the Schengen Area, and how systems like EES and ETIAS streamline the process.
EU Home Affairs Ministers have endorsed a revised rollout plan for two major travel systems. The Entry/Exit System will go live in October 2025, while the European Travel Information and Authorisation System will launch in late 2026, supported by transitional and grace periods.
The EU Council has adopted its position on visa-free travel for Kosovo passport holders, enabling short-term visits to the EU without visa requirements.
A significant step forward in regional integration: the EU Council and European Parliament have agreed to grant visa-free travel for Kosovo passport holders across the EU.
Council examined phased implementation strategies for the EES, internal Schengen pressures, and coordinated responses to transnational security challenges.
EU Justice and Home Affairs Ministers convened to address mounting security challenges from Middle East tensions, advance asylum pact negotiations, and confirm new operational dates for Europe's digital border systems ETIAS and EES.
The EU Justice and Home Affairs Council convenes to tackle transnational organised crime, strengthen border security mechanisms, and enhance digital travel systems across Europe.
EU justice ministers shift their focus to practical implementation of the asylum and migration pact, with particular attention to supporting displaced Ukrainians and modernizing border systems.
Bulgaria and Romania have achieved full Schengen membership with the removal of land border checks, while EU ministers address evolving migration and security frameworks.
From late 2026, non-EU travellers flying to Europe will need an ETIAS travel authorisation before boarding. Learn how the system works at airports, on arrival, and during international transits.