EU Entry/Exit System - What it Means for Travellers

The European Union is rolling out two major changes that will affect how UK travellers enter and exit Europe: the EU Entry/Exit System (EES) and the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS).

EU Entry/Exit System (EES) Launches 12 October 2025

Starting 12 October 2025, the EES will begin replacing manual passport stamping with a digital registration system. This means every time you cross a border into or out of the EU or Schengen area, your passport, facial scan, and fingerprints will be recorded electronically.

The system will be phased in gradually, becoming fully operational by 10 April 2026. It applies to non-EU citizens, including most UK travellers, making short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Children under 12 will be exempt from fingerprinting but will still need a facial scan.

Irish passport holders and British citizens with EU residency are exempt from EES.

 

ETIAS: Coming Late 2026

The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), originally expected sooner, will now be introduced towards the end of 2026. UK travellers do not need ETIAS for travel in 2025.

ETIAS will function similarly to the U.S. ESTA system, requiring travellers to apply online before entering the EU.

What Travellers Need to Know

• Border Questions: You may be asked electronically about your travel plans, such as where you're staying. Keep your documentation handy.

• Port of Dover & Eurostar: EES checks will occur before departure in the UK due to dual border controls.

• Cruise Travel: If your cruise departs and returns to the UK, you won’t need EES registration. Day trips during cruises are also exempt.

Countries Using EES

The system will apply to 29 countries including France, Spain, Italy, Germany, and Greece. Ireland and Cyprus will continue manual passport stamping for now.

Travellers are advised to stay informed and prepare for longer processing times during the transition period.