The European Union's new Entry/Exit System (EES) launches on April 10, introducing significant changes that Macedonian citizens need to be aware of before traveling to the Schengen zone.

Under the new system, all non-EU citizens, including Macedonians, will be required to register biometric data - including fingerprints and a facial photograph - upon their first entry into the Schengen area. The process replaces the traditional passport stamping method.

Key changes Macedonian travelers should know:

First entry will take longer. The initial registration process is expected to add 5 to 10 minutes at border crossings. Subsequent entries will be faster as the data will already be in the system.

The 90/180-day rule will be automatically tracked. The system will electronically monitor the duration of stays, making it virtually impossible to overstay without detection.

Valid biometric passports are mandatory. Travelers must ensure their passports meet the technical requirements for the new system.

Macedonian authorities are advising citizens to plan extra time for border crossings in the initial weeks as both travelers and border officials adjust to the new procedures.