The days of waiting for a border stamp are over. Starting in 2026, Ukrainians crossing into the European Union will encounter fully digital controls, biometric scans, and new travel authorizations.
Kyiv Post breaks down what’s changing, from EES to ETIAS, and what travelers need to know.
EES: The digital border is here
The EU’s Entry/Exit System (EES) officially launched on Oct. 12, 2025, and covers all Schengen countries except Cyprus and Ireland. Travelers no longer wait for stamps – self-service terminals automatically record arrivals and departures, using facial scans and fingerprints collected once every three years.
The system also tracks overstays: anyone exceeding 90 days in a 180-day period is flagged. Full implementation across all EU land, sea, and air entry points is expected by April 10.
Ukraine’s foreign ministry says digital integration is irreversible.
“This is not a barrier, but a step toward transparency and smoother travel logistics for law-abiding citizens,” a ministry official told Kyiv Post.
ETIAS: The new travel authorization
The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) launches in the last quarter of 2026. It does not replace visa-free travel but requires travelers to get electronic approval before departure.
Applicants will need:
- A valid biometric passport
- An email for the authorization
- A payment method (currently €7 for adults)
- Basic information on education, work, and first EU destination
ETIAS will be valid for three years or until the passport expires. Airlines, bus, and train operators will check it before travel.
Crossing Poland: Digital controls in action
Poland remains the main entry point for Ukrainians. Those under temporary protection (PESEL UKR) still have benefits, but digital checks are now mandatory. Travelers must present their information through the Diia.pl app, including for children under 13.
Medical insurance covering at least €30,000 (~$35,750) and proof of funds – around 75 zloty (~$21) per day – are still required. Drivers must carry a “Green Card” insurance certificate. Bus passengers must disembark for biometric scans, and first-time EES registration can take two to three hours during peak times.
The future of EU travel
EES and ETIAS make the Schengen zone safer from document fraud and illegal migration. While the first encounters with digital borders can be daunting, they promise a future where crossing the EU takes just seconds – one scan of the face, and you’re in.
As of February 2026, systems are stabilizing, technical glitches are mostly fixed, and integration between Ukrainian and EU databases is running smoothly. For Ukrainians traveling to Europe, awareness and preparation are key to a stress-free trip.