Entry/Exit System at Tenerife South Airport
Understanding the EES
What is the EES?
The Entry/Exit System (EES) is a computerised border control system set to replace manual passport checks.
Where is the system used?
It will monitor the external borders of the Schengen area, registering entries and exits of third-country nationals visiting Tenerife and other EU regions for a short stay.
When will it be implemented?
The EES is expected to launch across Europe in October 2024, with the exact start date pending official confirmation.
Who does it apply to?
The system registers non-EU nationals travelling to Tenerife and other EU areas for short stays, including visa-exempt EU nationals and short-stay visa holders.
What constitutes a short stay?
Non-EU nationals can visit Spain and other EU countries for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. This limit applies across all EU countries using the EES.
Purpose of the EES
Primarily, it saves time. Instead of stamping passports and doing border checks manually, the EES does it all automatically. In addition, it enhances security by identifying fake IDs and passports, spotting overstayers, and aiding in apprehending criminals.
Data collected by the EES
The system collects details from travel documents, entry/exit records, biometric data (facial image and fingerprints), and logs denied entries.
Understanding the 90-day timeframe
Multiple visits and staying within the timeframe
Visitors must ensure they don’t exceed 90 days within any 180-day period across all EU countries using the EES.
Checking how much time is left
Information on how much of your 90-day period is left can be accessed via the official EES website, at passport control using EES equipment, or by asking an officer at passport control.
Once your 90 days are used up
If you want to visit again once your 90 days are used up, you have two options:
- Wait until 180 days have passed since you first travelled to Spain (or another EU county). After that, you can visit again because your short-stay allowance will renew.
- Apply for a visa (this will need to be done before travelling).
Consequences of overstaying
Overstaying may result in legal consequences, such as fines or deportation, although exceptions may apply for unforeseen circumstances like serious illness.
Where to find more information
Detailed information is available on the official EES website, including tools to check remaining stay duration once the system is operational.
