The European Union today fully activated the Entry/Exit System (EES) - a digital border control mechanism that requires biometric registration for all citizens of non-EU countries when crossing borders.

The system involves facial photography and fingerprint collection, replacing the traditional passport stamping. Border authorities gain a clear overview of whether travelers exceed the permitted stay of 90 days within a 180-day period.

Macedonia's Ministry of Internal Affairs announced that it has deployed additional personnel and technical resources to maintain the efficiency of border crossings, promising to continuously monitor conditions.

No major delays are expected for freight transport since professional drivers have been registered in the system since October. However, transport companies must carefully track their drivers' days within the last 180 days to prevent complications upon entry.

The first day of implementation caused chaos at airports across Europe, with passengers waiting up to seven hours at passport control. Until October 10, 2026, a combined counting method will be applied - electronic data together with passport stamps.