Italy to implement manual passport stamping for EES queues exceeding 45 minutes

Italy announced on May 3, 2026, a temporary measure to implement manual passport stamping at Schengen borders when EES queues exceed 45 minutes, aiming to ease disruptions for travelers including those applying for a Schengen visa from USA. The European Entry/Exit System (EES), set to launch fully this week, will digitally track non-EU visitors, but initial rollout concerns prompted Italy's border authorities to activate this fallback protocol at major airports like Rome Fiumicino and Milan Malpensa. This step ensures smoother processing amid high volumes expected from transatlantic flights.

The directive, issued by Italy's Interior Ministry, allows border officers to revert to traditional wet-ink stamps for third-country nationals, bypassing EES automation if wait times surpass the threshold. This is particularly relevant for US citizens seeking a Schengen visa from USA, who often face extended lines during peak summer travel; officials estimate it could reduce average delays by up to 30%. The measure will remain in effect until EES stabilizes, with real-time monitoring via airport apps to inform passengers.

Industry groups, including airline associations, welcomed the policy as a pragmatic response to EES teething issues, predicting minimal impact on overall Schengen mobility. Travelers are advised to prepare biometric data in advance and monitor official updates, as similar contingency plans may emerge across the bloc. This development underscores Italy's commitment to balancing security innovations with efficient border flows.