Yes, Americans will be subject to new fingerprint and biometric collection requirements in Europe starting October 12, 2025, and it's best to come to terms with this reality as early as possible. This is a significant change for U.S. citizens, who had grown accustomed to European travel being a straightforward process, involving a quick stamp on their passport.

The Entry/Exit System (EES) will replace the stamps on people's passports with biometric checks for traveling in and out of the EU. This new era of travel will require your fingerprints and a digital photograph when you arrive in any of the 29 countries in the Schengen Area, including popular destinations like France, Italy, Spain, and Greece.

Gradually rolling out over six months, the EES system will no longer require non-EU tr

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