KUWAIT CITY, Oct 12: The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has announced the phased implementation of the new European Entry-Exit System (EES), which will gradually come into effect at border crossings across European Union (EU) countries and the Schengen Area. The system is scheduled for full operational rollout on 10 April 2026.

DGCA spokesperson Abdullah Al Rajhi stated that the EES is designed to strengthen border security and improve the registration process for travelers entering and exiting the EU. He urged all travelers to carefully follow the instructions related to the system’s implementation.

Under the new system, the traditional manual stamping of passports will be replaced by collecting travelers’ data digitally. This includes personal information and biometric data such as fingerprints and facial biometrics, ensuring more accurate and secure monitoring of movements into and out of Schengen Area countries.

Al Rajhi highlighted that the introduction of EES may lead to longer processing times at airports during its initial phases. Travelers should therefore anticipate extended procedures and plan accordingly.

He specifically advised passengers departing from Kuwait International Airport to EU or Schengen destinations to arrive at European airports at least three hours before departure to complete all necessary travel formalities without delays.

For travelers with transit flights through a Schengen Area country, Al Rajhi recommended allowing ample time between connecting flights to accommodate potential delays caused by the new entry and exit procedures.

The new EES is part of broader EU efforts to enhance border management, ensure security, and streamline the movement of travelers across member states while maintaining rigorous checks on non-EU nationals.