Beginning in 2025, travelers entering the European Union, including those from visa-exempt countries such as the United States will be fingerprinted and have a facial recognition image taken under the incoming European Travel Information and Authorisation System's (ETIAS) Entry/Exit System (EES).

Previously, Americans only needed a passport to visit E.U. countries.

"ETIAS travel authorization is an entry requirement for visa-exempt nationals traveling to any of these 30 European countries. It is linked to a traveller's passport. It is valid for up to three years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. If you get a new passport, you need to get a new ETIAS travel authorization," the EU said on November 11. "With a valid ETIAS travel authorization, you can enter the territory of these European countries as often as you want for short-term stays – normally for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. However, it does not guarantee entry. When you arrive, a border guard will ask to see your passport and other documents and verify that you meet the entry conditions."

Part of the ETIAS documentation process includes facial recognition imaging and fingerprint scanning into the EES.

"The Entry/Exit System (EES) will be an automated IT system for registering travellers from third-countries, both short-stay visa holders and visa exempt travellers, each time they cross an EU external border. The system will register the person's name, type of the travel document, biometric data (fingerprints and captured facial images) and the date and place of entry and exit," the E.U. said on October 9.

The E.U. specified what biometrics will be recorded for visa-exempt travelers, such as those carrying a U.S. passport.

"…the system will store 4 of your fingerprints and your facial image. Currently, the fingerprints of children below 12 years old are not scanned, even if they are subject to the EES," the E.U. said November 11.

Many travelers will even have to pay to undergo the new process.

"Once the program starts, some 1.4 billion people from the U.S. and dozens of other countries will need ETIAS to enter 30 European countries. The document will cost €7, or about $7.50; however, travelers under 18 years old or over 70 will not have to pay a fee. The ETIAS travel pass will be valid for three consecutive years," Forbes said in April.