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Lanzarote introduces biometric border checks for non-EU travellers
Spain has introduced the European Union's Entry/Exit System (EES) at Lanzarote airport, marking a significant step in the nation’s transition to digital border controls for non-EU visitors. The move is part of a phased rollout across Spain’s airports ahead of the full EU deadline in April 2026.
The EES replaces manual passport stamping with automated kiosks that register the entry and exit of travellers from outside the Schengen Area, including British and American tourists. Upon their first entry, non-EU visitors must scan their passport, have their facial image recorded, and submit four fingerprints. Subsequent crossings require only a rapid facial scan for identity verification.
Spanish and EU authorities developed EES to enhance border security, improve efficiency, and better detect overstays in real time. The digital system automatically logs when travellers enter and leave, making it far more difficult to overstay or manipulate entry records by using multiple passports.
At Lanzarote airport, the transition is being introduced gradually. While most non-EU travellers will start using the EES, some may still undergo manual stamping during the six-month coexistence period. The aim is to ensure a smooth adaptation and avoid disruption. Airport staff and “EES ambassadors” are on hand to assist travellers, encouraging them to keep passports ready and follow screen prompts for a seamless experience.
Spain’s Interior Ministry has invested heavily to modernize border points nationwide, installing self-service kiosks, e-gates, and secure police workstations at airports, seaports, and land borders. Airlines and tourism boards have launched information campaigns to inform visitors about potential delays and new procedures, especially during the overlapping period of both systems.
The EES rollout is expected to shorten processing times once fully operational, though officials advise travellers to anticipate possible queues during implementation. Holders of Spanish residence permits are exempt from biometric registration if they proactively present their identity cards at border control. Authorities warn that failing to do so could result in being mistakenly processed as a visitor, affecting residency or taxation records.
Lanzarote's adoption of the EES signals Spain’s commitment to stronger, faster, and smarter border management in anticipation of increased travel flows. The system will become mandatory across the EU by April 2026, with manual passport stamping ceasing entirely thereafter.