EES stands for Entry/Exit System. It is the EU’s new digital border system that replaced the passport stamp on April 10, 2026. Every American traveling to Europe for a short stay — including Fashion Week — will go through it.

When you arrive in Europe, border control will:

• Scan your passport

• Take a photo of your face

• Scan your fingerprints

That’s it. This replaces the old stamp. Your data is stored securely in the EU system for three years.

No. There is nothing to prepare, no forms to fill out, no fees to pay, and no approval needed. Just arrive with a valid passport.

Your first time through, allow an extra 30 to 60 minutes at the border. After that, your biometrics are on file and future entries are faster.

Yes — and it’s optional. The EU’s free “Travel to Europe” app lets you pre-load your passport information up to 72 hours before you arrive. It can help speed up your border crossing but is not required.

These are two separate systems that often get confused.

EES — Active now. Happens at the border automatically. No cost, no pre-registration.

ETIAS — Not active yet. Expected late 2026. This will be a pre-travel authorization (similar to the US ESTA) that you apply for online before your trip. You do NOT need this for Fashion Week travel this year.

Some websites are charging travelers for “EES registration.” This is a scam. EES is always free and is processed at the border — you cannot and do not need to register in advance through any third-party site.

Bottom Line: Pack your bags. Bring your passport. Arrive early for your first border crossing. Everything else happens automatically.