EU's New Entry System Raises Fees and Controls, Boosting Vilnius Appeal

From 10 April, the European Union's Entry/Exit System (EES) began requiring biometric registration for non‑EU travellers entering the Schengen Area for the first time. The new procedure has led to higher entry fees – in some popular holiday destinations the charge has effectively doubled – and stricter border checks.

Travelers seeking cheaper, less crowded options are turning to Lithuania's capital, Vilnius. The city, slated as European Green Capital for 2025 and ranked the world’s second‑greenest after Oslo, offers abundant parks, urban forests and a range of cultural events throughout the summer. Its easier access and lower congestion make it an attractive alternative amid the tighter EU entry regime.