EES fully operational — the end of passport stamps. What foreigners in Poland must know
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How does EES work?
The EU Entry/Exit System (EES), rolled out in stages from 12 October 2025, has been fully operational at the Schengen external borders since 10 April 2026 — including Polish border crossings and airports.
The system electronically records every external border crossing by a third-country national on a short stay: passport data, fingerprints and a facial image. Traditional passport stamps are history.
Automatic 90/180 counting
EES automatically calculates the use of the 90-days-in-180 limit. Overstays that previously went unnoticed are now flagged automatically — and visible to border services of all member states.
What about residence card holders?
Foreigners holding a Polish residence card or long-term visa are not registered in EES — the system covers short stays only. One more reason to settle your residence status instead of relying on visa-free travel.
Note: the end of stamps applies to Schengen border stamps only. The national stamp placed by the voivode in the passport (confirming submission of a residence application) still exists and legalizes the stay until a decision is issued.
Running out of your 90/180 limit? We will help you legalize a long-term stay — book a consultation with getpermit.pl.
(legal status as of August 2026)
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The final decision rests with the competent authority (voivode).