Beginning 12 October 2025, the EU will gradually introduce the European Entry/Exit System (EES), a new border management system to make checks more efficient and improve security within the Schengen territory.
To whom does the EES apply?
Non-EU nationals (including Malaysians) entering the EU for a short stay will have to:
- scan their passport
- have their photo and four fingerprints taken
- answer a few questions about their stay in Belgium (or any of the 29 participating countries)
EES registration is also mandatory on leaving the territory for non-EU nationals who entered the EU before the introduction of the EES.
What is the EES for?
- better protect the EU's external borders
- prevent illegal immigration
- identify persons who overstay
- combat identity fraud
Every time non-EU nationals cross the border, the date and place of entry/exit are also recorded, and data is stored in a centralised database.
What to expect:
At Brussels Airport, you may experience longer waiting times at border control, especially in the initial stages. Brussels Airport and the Belgian federal police will assist to limit the impact with:
- 61 self-service EES registration kiosks
- additional border control counters installed
- stewards will be deployed to help passengers on their way
All Malaysians are advised to plan their travels accordingly. For more info, scan the QR code or visit: https://travel-europe.europa.eu/en/ees
