Entering the EU from the UK on or after 12 October 2025?
The border systems are changing.
The EU is carrying out a phased introduction of the new Entry/Exit System (EES). The new digital EU Entry/Exit System means you'll need to register your fingerprints and photo at the border. It's free and only takes a few minutes.
Who is it applicable to?
All Non-EU travellers
What is EES?
The Entry/Exit system is a new digital passport checking scheme that is being introduced in Europe. It is designed to improve border security within the EU and its neighbouring countries, and to reduce illegal migration in the Schengen area. It will automate border control checks to help the EU stop visitors overstaying.
When does it take effect from?
There will be a phased rollout from 12 October 2025 across all 29 European countries. It will be introduced slowly across a period of six months. On the 9 April 2026, EES will operate fully in all European countries.
How will the phased rollout work?
During the rollout period you may be asked to go through EES or you may be required to simply show your passport. When you arrive at the border, look out for information signs advising what you need to do, and follow the advice of border staff.
It won’t necessarily operate at all borders from day one nor will it carry out all of the checks. Essentially, it will vary from place to place in terms of what checks under EES you may need to do.
Do I need to do anything in advance?
There is nothing you need to do (or can do) in advance; the checks take place at the border on arrival. If you do get processed through EES, they’ll be looking for your passport details and may take fingerprints or a facial scan.
Is there a charge for EES?
There is NO charge whatsoever for EES. If you see anything online about charging for EES, it is a scam.
What information will be required for EES?
EES will create a digital record on your first visit to the Schengen area at the port or airport on arrival. If you enter the Schengen area through the Port of Dover, Eurotunnel at Folkestone or St Pancras International, EES checks will be completed at the border, before you leave the UK. Your fingerprints will be scanned, and you will have your photo taken at dedicated booths. Your digital EES record is valid for 3 years. If you enter
the Schengen area again during this time, you will only need to provide a fingerprint or photo at the border, when you enter and exit.
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Are children exempt for EES?
There is no lower or upper age limit for EES, so everyone has to do it, although under 12’s will not have their fingerprints scanned.
Will it take longer to get through passport control when we arrive?
We think that it will take longer at the borders as there are now processes in place. We have been assured that there will be more border officers in place to speed up the process but you should be prepared for some delays.
Where can I get further information?
Further information can be found by clicking on the links below.
https://travel-europe.europa.eu/ees
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/eu-entryexit-system
EES and ETIAS
EES and ETIAS are often mentioned together but are not the same. ETIAS comes into place towards the end of 2026 (a specific date has not yet been confirmed). It stands for European Travel Information and Authorisation System, and is an entry requirement for visa-exempt nationals travelling to 30 European countries. You will need to apply for the visa and a charge will be applicable. No action is required at this point. Further details can be found here:
