GET READY: NEW BORDER RULES WITH EUROPE STARTING IN APRIL

Starting next month, full implementation of the Entry/Exit System (EES) will begin at border crossings with European Union and Schengen Area countries, leading to expected delays—especially at entry points into Croatia.

The Croatian Ministry of the Interior has reminded travelers that they will still be required to exit their vehicles during border checks, and this practice will remain in place going forward.

EES Records and Border Checks

The duration of border control under the new system will depend on whether a traveler already has an established EES record.

For first-time entries, when no record exists, border police will collect biometric data, including fingerprints and a facial image. For subsequent crossings, once a record has been created, only identity verification through facial recognition will be required. Although this process is faster, travelers will still need to leave their vehicles to complete the checks properly.

Authorities warn that border procedures may take longer than before in certain situations, as the new system introduces additional technical and operational steps

They also emphasize that the duration of checks does not depend solely on the system itself. Cooperation with border officers, following instructions, communication during the process, and the quality of biometric data—such as fingerprint scans—can all impact how long the procedure takes.

How the EES System Works

The European Union’s Entry/Exit System will be applied at all international border crossings. It will automatically record personal data, travel document details, and the exact time of entry and exit for third-country nationals entering the Schengen Area, including any refusals of entry.

Collection of Biometric Data

Upon first entry into Croatia or any EU country, third-country nationals will be required to provide biometric data—four fingerprints and a facial photograph—along with information from their travel documents.

This data will be stored in the system and used for all future border crossings.

The new rules apply to citizens of several regional countries, including Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, Montenegro, Albania, and North Macedonia, as well as travelers from Ukraine, Moldova, and the United Kingdom when entering Europe.

On the other hand, the system does not apply to European Union citizens. Croatian citizens and other EU nationals will continue crossing borders using their ID cards or passports, without the obligation to provide biometric data under this system.