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Greece Is Operating the EES Biometric Entry System for Non-EU Travelers

Published: 14.05.2026

The EU Entry/Exit System (EES) began operating at Greek airports and other entry points on April 10, 2026. It replaces passport stamps with the collection of photographs and digital fingerprints, although checks may be temporarily suspended at specific entry points during periods of high passenger traffic.

According to sources, non-EU travelers entering Greece are now subject to digital registration with a photograph and fingerprints instead of a standard passport stamp. This changes the border-crossing process and may affect processing time, particularly at busy entry points where temporary suspensions are permitted. The measure primarily affects tourists, new residents, and others who regularly cross the EU’s external border. Anyone planning a move should expect biometric registration on an initial trip and allow extra time at the border rather than relying on a nationality-based exemption.