Home » Czech Republic Travel News » Spain Joins Germany, Italy, France, Switzerland, Czech Republic, and Other Schengen Countries to Revolutionize European Travel with New ETIAS and EES Updates Starting in 2026: Everything You Need to Know
Published on
November 17, 2025
Starting in 2026, Spain will join Germany, Italy, France, Switzerland, Czech Republic, and other Schengen countries in implementing the ETIAS and EES systems. These updates aim to revolutionize European travel by enhancing security, streamlining entry, and ensuring safer borders. The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) will require travelers from visa-exempt countries to apply for an online authorization before entering Spain, while the Entry/Exit System (EES) will collect biometric data such as facial recognition and fingerprints at borders. These measures are designed to improve border control efficiency and increase security across the Schengen Zone. However, travelers should be prepared for potential delays, as the digital visa system and biometric checks may result in longer processing times at airports and border crossings. With these updates, Spain, alongside its Schengen partners, is setting a new standard for secure and efficient international travel.
Switzerland Takes a Step Towards Safer Borders: ETIAS and EES Arrive in 2026
Switzerland is set to enhance its border security with the introduction of ETIAS and EES in 2026. Travelers from visa-exempt countries, such as the US and Australia, will need to apply for an online travel authorization through ETIAS before entering Switzerland. Additionally, the EES will require biometric data collection, including facial recognition and fingerprints, at the border. These changes aim to improve security but could lead to longer processing times at airports and other entry points. Travelers should ensure that their travel documents are up to date to avoid delays.
Germany Leads the Charge: New Visa Rules and Biometric Screening Coming Soon
Germany will implement ETIAS and EES by 2026, marking a major overhaul of its border controls. Travelers from visa-exempt countries will need to apply for ETIAS before visiting, while biometric data such as fingerprints and facial recognition will be collected at entry points under the EES. These changes are designed to strengthen border security but will likely result in longer processing times. With digital visa processing in place, travelers should be ready for a smoother, yet slightly slower entry process in the near future.
France Prepares for Seamless but Slower Travel: ETIAS and EES in Full Effect
France is introducing ETIAS and EES by 2026, meaning travelers will face more stringent border controls. ETIAS will require all visa-exempt visitors to apply for online authorization before entering France, while the EES will use biometric data to track entries and exits more accurately. This new system aims to bolster security across the Schengen Zone but could lead to longer processing times at entry points, especially during peak travel seasons. Travelers need to plan ahead to ensure they meet all requirements and avoid delays.
Italy’s New Border Security: Get Ready for ETIAS and Biometric Checks
Italy will soon introduce ETIAS and EES, with full implementation by 2026. ETIAS will require travelers from visa-exempt countries to submit an online application before entering Italy, while the EES will collect biometric data such as fingerprints and facial recognition at borders. The transition to digital visas is a major move towards more secure travel, but it may also result in longer wait times at airports. Italy’s tourism industry will see both benefits and challenges as the new system rolls out.
Spain’s New Travel Rules: Digital Visas and Biometric Security on the Horizon
Spain is joining other Schengen countries by introducing ETIAS and EES in 2026. ETIAS will require travelers from visa-exempt countries to apply for an online travel authorization, while the EES will capture biometric data at the borders. These changes are designed to improve border security and streamline entry processes, but they could also lead to longer waits at checkpoints. Spain’s vibrant tourism industry will see both the positives and challenges of these new regulations, and travelers will need to adapt to the new requirements to avoid any disruptions.
Czech Republic’s Border Overhaul: Get Ready for Digital Visas and Biometric Data
The Czech Republic is embracing the ETIAS and EES systems by 2026, aligning with the EU’s goal for enhanced border security. Travelers from visa-exempt countries will be required to apply for ETIAS, while biometric data such as facial recognition and fingerprints will be captured at borders under the EES. While these changes aim to improve border security, they may lead to longer wait times, especially at major entry points. Travelers are advised to allow extra time for processing and ensure their travel documents are in order to avoid delays.
Other Schengen Countries Adopting ETIAS and EES
Many Schengen countries, including Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, the Netherlands, and others, are joining Spain in implementing ETIAS and EES by 2026. These systems will introduce biometric data collection (facial recognition and fingerprints) and require visa-exempt travelers to apply for online authorization through ETIAS before entering. The EES will track entries and exits more efficiently, improving security and border control across Europe. While these changes aim to enhance safety, they could lead to longer processing times at entry points, especially during peak travel seasons.
Starting in 2026, Spain will join Germany, Italy, France, Switzerland, Czech Republic, and other Schengen countries in implementing the ETIAS and EES systems. These updates aim to revolutionize European travel by enhancing security, streamlining entry, and ensuring safer borders.
Conclusion
Spain joining Germany, Italy, France, Switzerland, Czech Republic, and other Schengen countries in implementing the ETIAS and EES systems starting in 2026 will revolutionize European travel by enhancing security and streamlining entry. The ETIAS will require online authorization for visa-exempt travelers, while the EES will collect biometric data at borders. Although these updates will improve border security, they may cause longer processing times at entry points. Despite potential delays, these changes will ensure safer and more efficient travel across Europe, setting a new standard for border control.
