EES Entry/Exit System: Information for Employers and Professionals

With the Entry/Exit-System (EES), the European Union introduced a new digital system for entries and exits into the Schengen Area. The system is also being implemented in Austria and primarily affects international airports. For international professionals and employers, this means greater transparency regarding stays and new procedures for business travel.

Who Is Affected by the Entry/Exit System (EES)?

The EES applies to all third country nationals who stay in the Schengen Area for a short stay of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. 

In particular, the following groups are not affected: 

• Persons holding a residence title issued by a Schengen country (e.g. Red-White-Red – Card, EU Blue Card) 

• Holders of a Visa D for long term stays 

• EU, EEA and Swiss citizens 

A complete list of the groups exempt from the EES can be found on the website of the Austrian Federal Ministry of the InteriorAustrian Federal Ministry of the Interior ().

Entry/Exit System in Practice: What Does the EES Mean for International Professionals? 

For international professionals entering without a residence permit: 

• Duration of stay is recorded automatically 

• The 90 180-day rule is centrally monitored 

• Irregularities can be detected more easily 

• The first entry may take longer due to data collection 

For individuals holding a valid residence permit, procedures remain largely unchanged: 

• No registration in the EES 

• Entry and exit remain as before 

• A passport and residence permit must still be carried

Conclusion

The Entry/Exit System (EES) digitises the entry and exit of third-country nationals travelling within the Schengen Area. For international professionals and employers, it provides greater transparency regarding permitted lengths of stay while enabling more effective monitoring of the 90/180-day rule. Those who regularly travel for business within Europe and the Schengen Area should familiarise themselves with the new requirements early and stay informed about updates from the relevant authorities.

Further official information on the Entry/Exit System, including the latest updates, is available on the website of the Austrian Federal Ministry of the Interior. The site outlines the system’s key provisions, its scope of application, and answers to frequently asked questions.

Learn more about the Entry/Exit SystemLearn more about the Entry/Exit System ()