Starting this Thursday, April 10, 2026, Albanian citizens traveling to countries within the Schengen Area will encounter new border procedures. The Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs announces the full implementation of the European Entry/Exit System (EES), a new electronic mechanism of the European Union.
According to the official announcement, the EES system replaces the manual stamping of passports with electronic registration of entries and exits for citizens from non-EU countries. This system had been partially in effect since October 2025 and will now be fully applied across the 29 countries of the Schengen zone.
Authorities note that the system will apply to short-term travel, up to 90 days within a 180-day period, without altering the existing stay regulations.
Upon first entry after April 10, Albanian citizens will have their passport data, facial photograph, and fingerprints registered. Refusal to provide this biometric data will automatically result in denial of entry into the Schengen territory.
The Ministry warns that during the initial implementation phase, delays may occur at airports, seaports, and land border points. Therefore, citizens are advised to arrive earlier for travel and ensure their passports are valid and in good physical condition.
Meanwhile, it is emphasized that no prior application for the EES system is required, as registration takes place at the moment of border crossing.
The Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs urges citizens to inform themselves in advance about the new procedures and to plan their travels while accounting for additional time needed for border checks.