Key points
- From 10 April, Ukrainians are required to undergo biometric registration when entering 29 EU countries.
- The first procedure includes passport scanning, a facial photograph, and fingerprint collection.
- For children under 12, fingerprints are not taken.
- Data will be stored for three years; on subsequent trips, only passport or facial scanning will be required.
- Refusal to provide biometric data will result in entry being denied.
- The new rules apply in most EU countries and in Schengen area countries that are not part of the EU.
From 10 April 2026, Ukrainians and citizens of other non-EU countries will be required to undergo biometric registration when entering 29 European countries. The new rules apply to both biometric passport holders and travellers using visas.
The border crossing procedure for third-country nationals changes with the introduction of the Entry/Exit System (EES). Traditional passport stamps are replaced with digital registration using biometric data.
On the first entry or exit, travellers must complete the full procedure:
- passport scanning;
- facial photograph;
- collection of fingerprints from four fingers of the right hand.
For children under 12, fingerprints are not collected.
Biometric data will be stored in the system for three years. For subsequent trips, only passport or facial scanning at automated terminals will be required.
Refusal to provide biometric data will result in automatic denial of entry.
The new rules will apply in most EU countries, except Cyprus and Ireland, as well as in Schengen Area countries outside the EU – Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland.
The system is intended to enhance border security, prevent the use of fraudulent documents, and automatically monitor the length of stay of foreign nationals.
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