When Will the EES Begin?
From 12 October 2025, the European Union (EU) will introduce its new Entry/Exit System (EES). This digital border scheme will change how British citizens are processed when travelling to the Schengen area. It will replace the current system of passport stamps with an electronic record of entry and exit.
Which Countries Are Covered by the EES?
The EES applies across the Schengen area, which includes 27 countries:
Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland.
It does not apply when travelling to Ireland or Cyprus, as neither country is part of the Schengen zone.
What Will Travellers Need To Do at the Border?
On arrival at a Schengen border, British travellers will need to register their biometric details, including fingerprints and a facial photograph. This replaces the manual passport stamp currently used.
- First-time registration will take a few minutes, as the system creates a digital record.
- For later trips, the process will be faster: travellers will only need to provide either a fingerprint or photo when entering and exiting.
- No action is required before travel, and there is no fee for registration.
Where Will Checks Take Place?
Checks depend on your route into the Schengen area:
- Eurostar (St Pancras International): Travellers must complete registration at self-service kiosks located before ticket gates.
- Eurotunnel (Folkestone): Passengers will use a dedicated pre-registration area with self-service kiosks.
- Ferries (Port of Dover): Registration will take place at kiosks in the Western Docks processing area, or via staff with tablets.
- Airports and other ferry ports: Registration will be completed on arrival in the destination country.
In all cases, travellers should follow directions from their carrier, port or airport staff and notify officials if they anticipate difficulties completing biometric checks.
How Long Will Records Be Kept?
Digital records under the EES are valid for three years for compliant travellers.
How Does the EES Affect the 90-Day Rule?
The system will automatically track stays within the Schengen area and enforce the 90 days in any 180-day period rule. This means overstays will be detected immediately. Travellers who regularly visit the EU for work or leisure will need to plan carefully to remain compliant.
Penalties for overstaying vary by country, so travellers should check the enforcement approach of the individual Member State they intend to visit.
Why Is the EU Introducing the EES?
The EES is designed to:
- Improve border security and reduce illegal overstays.
- Replace manual passport stamping with a more consistent system.
- Streamline border processes in the long term, even though initial delays are expected.
UK government has been working with the European Commission, ports and carriers to prepare for the change. Funding of £3.5 million has been allocated each to Eurostar, Eurotunnel and the Port of Dover to support installation of kiosks and infrastructure.
What Will Happen After the EES?
The EES is the first part of the EU’s wider digital border reforms. In 2026, the EU plans to launch the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS). British citizens will need to apply online before travel, providing personal details and paying a €20 fee. However, no action is needed for ETIAS yet, as the EU will announce its start date closer to the time.
With over 20 years of experience and a commitment to excellence, Morgan Smith Immigration is your trusted partner for all your immigration needs. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you with UK Visa Applications. For any enquiries or assistance, call us at 0203 959 3335 or email [email protected].
