EES registration — how it actually works
Searching for an EES application form? Stop — there isn't one. Registration in the EU Entry/Exit System happens automatically at the border on your first entry. Here's exactly what to expect, what's optional, and how to spot the scam sites.
Check live border queues →What "registering for EES" really means
On your first entry to the Schengen Area, a self-service kiosk or border officer records your passport data, four fingerprints and a facial image. That's the entire registration:
- Approach a self-service EES kiosk or booth. At most major Schengen airports, follow the signs for "Non-EU / EES Registration" after disembarking. Kiosks are typically placed before the staffed immigration booths.
- Scan your passport. Place your passport photo page down on the reader. The kiosk scans the MRZ (machine-readable zone) and confirms your identity. Make sure your chipped biometric passport is intact — damaged chips trigger a manual fallback.
- Provide fingerprints. Place four fingers (excluding the thumb) flat on the scanner when prompted, first right hand then left. Children under 12 skip this step.
- Capture facial image. Look straight at the camera with no hat, sunglasses, or face covering. Neutral expression. The kiosk validates the image against your passport photo.
- Answer any border questions. Most travelers are waved through. Some are directed to a staffed booth for standard purpose-of-visit and length-of-stay questions. Have proof of onward travel and accommodation ready.
- Collect receipt and proceed — no passport stamp. The kiosk prints a small entry receipt. Your entry is now recorded digitally; no physical stamp is added to your passport. Keep the receipt for your records until you exit the Schengen Area.
It takes about 3–7 minutes once, then your record is reused for 3 years — returning trips clear in 30–60 seconds. See the full EES guide for who it applies to and check whether you need EES at all.
What you can do in advance (all optional)
- The official EES app — "Travel to Europe" lets you pre-submit passport data and a facial image at participating airports. How the app works →
- Pre-registration kiosks — Eurostar (St Pancras), Eurotunnel (Folkestone) and the Port of Dover run kiosks before departure. Land & sea crossings →
- Check the queue before you fly — our live wait times show current kiosk queues by airport.
- Count your days — EES enforces the 90/180 rule automatically, so plan with the Schengen calculator.
EES registration FAQ
Can I apply for EES now?
No — and you never will. There is no EES application, form or fee. EES registration happens automatically at the border the first time you enter the Schengen Area: a kiosk or officer scans your passport and captures four fingerprints and a facial image. Any website offering to "apply for EES" for a fee is a scam.
Do I need to register for EES before I travel?
No. There is nothing to do before you travel. Some airports and the cross-Channel routes offer optional pre-enrolment kiosks or the official EES app to speed things up on the day, but skipping them costs you nothing except a few extra minutes at the border.
How much does EES registration cost?
EES is completely free. Do not confuse it with ETIAS, the separate online travel authorisation expected to cost €20 when it launches — and even ETIAS is not open for applications yet.
How long does EES registration take?
First-entry enrolment typically takes 3–7 minutes at a self-service kiosk. On later trips your stored biometrics are reused and crossing usually takes 30–60 seconds.
How long does my EES registration last?
Your biometric record stays valid for 3 years from your last exit (5 years for visa holders). Travel again within that window and you skip full enrolment; let it lapse and you simply enrol again on your next first entry.
Can I pre-register in the EES app?
Partially, where supported. The official "Travel to Europe" app lets you pre-submit passport data and a facial image for participating airports (and Eurostar/Eurotunnel/Dover run pre-registration kiosks), but fingerprints can only be captured in person, so a short border step always remains.