Oslo Airport

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Questions and Answers (EES)

From 12 October 2025, Norway will begin using a new border control system called the Entry/Exit System (EES). This is part of a joint initiative with other Schengen countries. On this page, you will find questions and answers related to the new system.

What is the Entry/Exit System (EES)?
The Entry/Exit System is a new European border control system. It applies to travellers from non-EU, non-EEA, and non-EFTA countries who are visiting the Schengen Area for short stays of up to 90 days.

How does the Entry/Exit System work?

  • Upon a traveller’s first entry into the Schengen Area, their identity, passport information, and biometric data (facial image and fingerprints) are recorded.

  • For subsequent entries and exits, biometric data are used to verify the traveller’s identity.

  • The system stores the time and place of entry and exit, as well as any refusals of entry.

Who is required to register in the Entry/Exit System?
Travellers from third countries (non-EU/EEA/EFTA) visiting the Schengen Area for short stays of up to 90 days. This applies both to travellers who require a visa and those who are visa-exempt.

When will the Entry/Exit System come into effect?
The EES is being introduced in Norway through a phased rollout. This means the system will be operational at certain border crossing points from 12 October, and will be fully implemented at all border checkpoints within six months, by April 2026 at the latest.

Third-country nationals entering Norway or another Schengen country from 12 October onwards may therefore be registered and/or checked in the EES.

At Oslo Airport, the rollout of the Entry/Exit System begins on 12 October, starting with a limited number of border control gates, which will gradually be expanded.

Does the Entry/Exit System affect Norwegian, EU, or EEA citizens?
No, EES does not apply to EU or EEA citizens. It only applies to third-country nationals.

What about travel to and from the United Kingdom and Ireland?

  • The United Kingdom is not part of the EU or the Schengen Area. UK nationals are considered third-country nationals and will therefore be registered in the Entry/Exit System.

  • Ireland is part of the EU but not the Schengen Area. Irish citizens will also be registered in the Entry/Exit System.

  • For Norwegian and other EU citizens, travel to the UK or Ireland remains unchanged.

What is the difference between ETA, ESTA, and the Entry/Exit System (EES)?

  • EES (Entry/Exit System): A new EU-wide border control system for registering third-country nationals entering and exiting the Schengen Area for short stays of up to 90 days.

  • ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation): A pre-travel authorisation for visitors to the United Kingdom. It applies to third-country nationals, including Norwegians, travelling to the UK for short stays.

  • ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization): An electronic authorisation for visa-free short stays in the United States. Applies to citizens of countries under the US Visa Waiver Program, including Norway.

 

What is the Schengen Area?
The Schengen Area is a group of European countries that have abolished internal border checks to allow free movement. It enables travel between member countries without border controls. Schengen countries also cooperate on common visa policies and external border management.

What is a third-country national?
A third-country national is a person who is not a citizen of an EU or EEA country – that is, someone from a country outside this area.

What are biometric data?
Biometric data are physical or behavioural characteristics that are unique to an individual and can be used to identify or verify that person. Examples include facial recognition and fingerprints.