What is EU-LISA and Why Does it Matter?

EU-LISA is the European Union agency responsible for managing large-scale IT systems that support security and border management. As part of this, two major travel systems are being rolled out for carriers flying passengers into the Schengen Area:

• EES (Entry/Exit System)

• ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) – Expected by late 2026

These systems are mandatory for airlines and other transport operators that bring non-EU passengers into the Schengen Area.

What Do Carriers Need to Do?

Under the new regulations, carriers must:

1. Register with EU-LISA as an approved data provider.

2. Submit passenger data for certain travelers before they arrive in the Schengen Area.

3. Integrate or test their systems to ensure compatibility.

Who Is Affected?

Carriers must submit data for:

• Third-country nationals (i.e., not from the EU, EEA, or Switzerland)

• Travelers staying short-term (up to 90 days in a 180-day period)

• Both visa-exempt and visa-required passengers

Getting Started: Onboarding Checklist

Here’s how to get set up with EU-LISA step by step:

Step 1: Complete Carrier Registration

Fill out the official Carrier Registration Form here:
📄 Carrier Registration Form (EU-LISA)

This lets EU-LISA know who you are and begins the onboarding process.

Step 2: Choose How to Integrate

You have two options:

Option A: Full System Integration (Standard Route)

You'll go through full technical onboarding and testing. This includes submitting test passenger data and validating system responses.

Option B: Skip Testing (Fast Track)

If you prefer not to go through every technical test, you can submit a Self-Declaration Form confirming that your system is already compliant.

📄 Ask your account rep or support for the "Carrier Self Declaration for system compliance exemption" form.

Step 3: Testing (if applicable)

If you're going the full integration route:

• You'll be invited to a test environment.

• Test files will be sent and reviewed.

• EU-LISA will provide certification upon completion.

FAQs

❓What is EES?

The Entry/Exit System tracks when third-country nationals enter or leave the Schengen Area, replacing manual passport stamps with biometric and digital logs.

❓What is ETIAS?

The European Travel Information and Authorization System is a travel pre-screening requirement for visa-exempt travelers entering the EU. Similar to the U.S. ESTA.

❓Do we need to comply now?

You’ll need to be compliant with EES by October 2025, and ETIAS by late 2026.