Since April 2026, Poland has fully transitioned to the EES (Entry/Exit System). Passport stamps have been abolished — they have been replaced by electronic record-keeping.
What the system records:
- date and place of entry and exit
- duration of stay in Schengen
All data is stored in the EU database for 3 years. The 90/180-day rule is now calculated automatically — no manual counting.
How control takes place:
Upon crossing, passports are scanned, photos are taken, and sometimes fingerprints are collected. An electronic profile is created upon the first crossing — this may take more time. Subsequently, the process will speed up.
Experience on the Chełm–Kyiv train:
Control takes place in the compartment, as before. The border guard scans the passport and asks for UKR status or a residence card. If available — it is enough to dictate the PESEL number. Without status — photos are taken directly on the train, fingerprints were not collected. The train departed on schedule.
Border delays due to EES are already being recorded in various EU countries, so it is worth allowing extra time for the first crossing.