Is Croatia Implementing a New Border System for Non-EU Travellers?
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Synopsis
Croatia has launched a new border management system for non-EU travellers, marking a significant shift in entry protocols. This initiative aims to enhance security and streamline the border experience, while also showcasing the country's booming tourism sector. With a rise in visitor numbers, Croatia is poised for an exceptional tourism year ahead.
Key Takeaways
- New Border System: Croatia has launched the EU's Entry/Exit System.
- Biometric Requirement: Non-EU travellers must provide biometric data.
- Automated Processing: EES automates personal details and entry times.
- Tourism Booming: Croatia anticipates record tourist arrivals.
- Economic Impact: Tourism constitutes one-fifth of Croatia's GDP.
Zagreb, Oct 12 (NationPress) On Sunday, Croatia began the rollout of the European Union's (EU) latest Entry/Exit System (EES), a digital border control framework aimed at non-EU travellers entering or leaving the Schengen Area, as reported by Croatian media.
As per the Ministry of the Interior, referenced by Croatia Week, non-EU citizens will now need to provide biometric data—including fingerprints and a facial photograph—alongside their passport upon their initial entry into Croatia or any Schengen nation. This data will be securely stored for future visits.
Rather than having border agents stamp passports, the EES will automatically capture each traveler's personal details, passport data, and times of entry and exit, according to Xinhua News Agency. It will also document any instances of entry refusal into Croatia or the broader Schengen Area.
For future entries, the identities of travellers will be validated by matching a live facial image with their stored biometric profile, enhancing both speed and security in the process. This system will not affect EU citizens, including Croatians, who can continue to cross borders using a passport or national ID card without needing to provide biometric data.
The deployment of this new system will take place progressively across all international border crossings in Croatia, aligned with the EU's comprehensive launch plan, and is anticipated to be fully operational by April 10 of the following year, as noted in the report.
On October 7, Croatian Minister of Tourism and Sports, Tonci Glavina, announced that tourist arrivals and overnight stays in Croatia increased by over five percent in September compared to the same month last year, potentially forecasting a record year for the tourism sector in 2025.
"This year, we have recorded exceptional tourism results thus far, with about two percent more tourist arrivals and approximately one percent more overnight stays than in the previous year," stated Glavina, emphasizing that this growth was not limited to the peak summer months but began in the pre-season and has continued into the post-season.
He highlighted that these figures reflect the ongoing efforts to enhance the tourism sector by minimizing seasonality and promoting balanced development across regions throughout the year. The ministry aims to stimulate travel during both pre- and post-seasons while ensuring simultaneous growth in revenues and profitability, he added.
Tourism is a vital pillar of the Croatian economy, constituting roughly one-fifth of the country's gross domestic product (GDP).
Point of View
It is vital to recognize the implications of Croatia's implementation of the EU's Entry/Exit System. This new protocol not only enhances border security but also reflects Croatia's commitment to improving the tourist experience. The rising tourism statistics indicate a healthy economy and a promising future, reinforcing the need for a balanced approach to seasonal tourism. Our national interests are well represented as we embrace these changes.
NationPress
13/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Entry/Exit System (EES)?
The Entry/Exit System (EES) is a digital border management system introduced by the EU for non-EU travellers, aimed at automating entry and exit records while enhancing security.
Will EU citizens be affected by the EES?
No, the EES does not apply to EU citizens, including Croatians, who can continue to cross borders using a passport or national ID card without biometric data.
What biometric data will be collected?
Non-EU nationals will be required to provide fingerprints and a facial photograph alongside their passport upon their first entry into Croatia or any Schengen country.
When will the EES be fully operational in Croatia?
The EES is expected to be fully operational across all international border crossings in Croatia by April 10 of next year.
How does the EES improve the border crossing experience?
The EES automates the recording of personal details and entry/exit times, allowing for quicker processing and enhanced security through biometric verification.
