Border checks in Europe have changed. The EU’s Entry/Exit System (EES) started on 12 October 2025 and has been fully operational since 10 April 2026, and a second system, ETIAS, is expected to follow in the last quarter of 2026. Both apply to private flights as well as airlines.
What is EES?
EES replaces passport stamping for non-EU nationals visiting the Schengen area, including Malta, for short stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period. On your first entry, border officers record your facial image, fingerprints and passport details. Later entries are quicker because your record already exists.
It applies to visitors from countries such as the UK, USA, Canada and the Gulf states. EU citizens and residents holding a residence permit are not affected.
What is ETIAS?
ETIAS is a pre-travel authorisation for visa-exempt travellers, similar to the US ESTA. Once it launches, you will need to apply online before travelling. The fee has been set at €20, and an approval will be valid for three years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.
What it means for private flights
- Send passenger details early. Your operator must submit passenger information to the authorities in advance. Accurate passport data avoids delays on arrival.
- Allow a few extra minutes on first entry while biometrics are captured, even at business aviation terminals.
- Check ETIAS before you fly once it goes live. Without it, boarding may be refused.
Our team checks the paperwork for every YouJet flight into Malta and the wider Schengen area, so you can step off the aircraft and go.
Request a charter quote or message us on WhatsApp and we will come back to you quickly with options.
Sources: European Commission (Home Affairs) information on EES and ETIAS; EIG Law; BookaJet.
