Flying to Spain? What the new EES means for passport control

If you’re travelling to the Costa del Sol from outside the EU such as the UK, USA or Canada, the way you enter Spain has now changed.

Since April 2026, passport stamps have been replaced by a digital system called the Entry Exit System (EES).

Here’s a clear, no-nonsense guide so you know exactly what to expect:

Can you pre-register before you fly?

Yes, but only up to a point.You can use the official Travel to Europe app to upload your passport details and take your photo before you travel. It’s best to do this a couple of days before your flight.

When you land at Málaga Airport, you will still need to stop at a kiosk or speak to a border officer. This is where you give your fingerprints and complete the final checks.

So, it can save a bit of time, but you will not be able to skip the queue completely.

What happens the first time you use the system?

On your first trip under EES, you will need to register your details. This is where most people experience delays.

The process itself is straightforward:

• Scan your passport at a machine
• Take a photo
• Scan four fingerprints if you are aged 12 or over
• Briefly speak to a border officer for confirmation

The good news is this only happens once. Your details stay on the system for three years, so future trips are much quicker.

Which queue should you join?

If it’s your first time using the system, just follow the Non-EU or All Passports signs. There’s no fast track at the moment, and queues can be longer during busy periods.

If you’ve already registered, you’ll usually be able to use the biometric e-gates, which are much quicker since your details are already stored.

Over time, this will likely become the fastest way through, similar to how EU passport lanes work now.

Are you travelling with children?

This is one part that can catch people out.

Children under 12 do not need to give fingerprints, but they will still need to have a photo taken.

Families are often directed to a staffed desk instead of the self-service machines, so it’s best to just follow the signs or go with whatever staff advise when you arrive.

Why are there still delays?

The main reason is that the system is still new.

Every non-EU traveler now has to register, so airports like Málaga Airport can get quite busy, especially when several flights arrive at the same time.

A few simple tips

• Make sure your phone is charged in case you need your booking details or the app
• Keep your passport in hand rather than packed away
• Allow extra time when you arrive, especially on your first trip

Final thought

If you are heading to Marbella or anywhere along the Costa del Sol, it is worth building in a bit of extra time.

Adding around an hour to your arrival is a sensible idea for now.
Once you are registered, the entire process becomes much quicker and far less stressful on future trips.