Question
I know Entry/Exit System (EES) hasn’t been introduced yet, but when it does come into play and entry to Spain will be done by facial and fingerprint recognition. Will you still need to have your passport stamped on entry to trigger your visa?
Answers
These are the answers from Spainguru’s Facebook group members:
“Wanna be extra super safe? Do this regardless (Declaración de entrada).”
“Do you need a declaración if you alera have a TIE card? If not, what is necessary if you have TIE and traveling between Schengen countries? Thank you in advance.”
“I don’t think you need one if you have a TIE card already. Even if Schengen is internally borderless, there could be immigration controls.
You should always travel with your TIE and Passport. You cannot travel internationally with only a TIE card.
A TIE card is a Spanish residency document that proves your legal status in Spain, but it is not a valid travel document for crossing borders. You still need a valid passport from your country of origin to travel internationally, even if you have a TIE. 90/180 days rule applies in other Schengen countries.”
“EES will do away with stamps on entry and exit. You will no longer require a stamp in your passport as authorities will have an online record of your movements. Allegedly!!!!🥴”
Conclusion
The discussion shows that many expats are uncertain about how the upcoming Entry/Exit System (EES) will affect passport stamping when entering Spain. Members generally agree that stamps may no longer be needed, as the EES will record entries and exits electronically through biometrics.
For residents holding a TIE card, the consensus is that you should always carry both your TIE and your passport. While the TIE proves your legal residency in Spain, it is not a valid travel document. Your passport remains essential when crossing international borders, even within the Schengen Area.
The introduction of EES will replace manual stamps with an electronic record of movements, but travelers should remain cautious and informed as the system is implemented. Carrying both documents and understanding the 90/180 rule in Schengen countries remains important. This article is based on personal opinions from the Spainguru community and is not legal advice.
What is the status of the new EES? (August 2025)
The European Union will begin rolling out its new Entry/Exit System (EES) on October 12, 2025, aiming for full operation by April 10, 2026. This automated system will replace passport stamps for non-EU nationals on short stays (up to 90 days) at Schengen Area external borders. To improve security and streamline border checks, it will collect biometric information like fingerprints and facial scans.
FAQs about the new EES
What should I do to prepare for the implementation of the EES at Spanish and Schengen borders?
Travelers should carry both their passport and TIE card, stay informed about the EES rollout, and understand the 90/180 days rule within Schengen countries, as electronic records will replace manual stamping.
Can I travel internationally with only my TIE card?
No, you cannot travel internationally with only your TIE card. You must carry your valid passport from your country of origin in addition to your TIE for border crossings.
Is it necessary to carry a declaración de entrada if I have a TIE card and am traveling within Schengen countries?
If you have a TIE card, you generally do not need to carry a declaración de entrada when traveling between Schengen countries, but it is advisable to carry your passport and TIE as proof of residence and identity.
Will I still need my passport stamped upon entering Spain once the Entry/Exit System (EES) is implemented?
Once the Entry/Exit System (EES) is operational, the manual stamping of passports upon entering Spain may become unnecessary, as authorities will record entries electronically through biometric data.
