The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has recently advised travellers on a significant change in regulations when visiting popular European Union (EU) destinations. The newly introduced Entry/Exit System (EES) is set to revolutionise border control procedures in the EU, affecting all non-EU nationals entering the Schengen area. The EES is expected to be operational from October 2025, replacing manual passport stamping with digital biometric data collection. This move aims to enhance border security, combat terrorism and crime, and create a more efficient border management system.
The FCDO’s alert specifically mentions countries like Spain, Greece, Italy, and other EU nations, highlighting the imminent implementation of the EES. This system will require travellers, including those from the UK, to provide biometric details like fingerprints or facial images upon entry to a Schengen area country using a UK passport. These details will be used to create a digital record of each traveller’s entry and exit, along with other relevant information such as the duration of their stay within a specified period.
The EES will streamline the border control process by automating the verification of travellers’ identities and travel documents at self-service kiosks. This digital record will be accessible to border guards, law enforcement agencies, and Europol for security and intelligence purposes. By replacing manual checks with a more modern, efficient system, the EES aims to improve the detection of overstays, enhance border security, and provide data-driven support for visa policy decisions.
For British travellers, this means a significant change in the entry and exit procedures when visiting EU countries within the Schengen area. Initial entry will require the provision of biometric data, while subsequent border crossings within a three-year period will involve a quick verification process using fingerprints and facial images. The UK Government is collaborating with ports and carriers to facilitate the smooth implementation of the EES, with investments in technology and infrastructure to minimise disruptions for travellers.
Eurostar, Eurotunnel, and the Port of Dover are some of the key players preparing for the EES’s rollout, setting up kiosks and systems to ensure efficient registration and processing of travellers. Eurostar plans to deploy multiple kiosks at strategic locations, while Eurotunnel anticipates minimal delays due to the new checks. Likewise, the Port of Dover is making arrangements to handle EES registrations seamlessly, ensuring a hassle-free experience for travellers using different modes of transport.
The introduction of the EES reflects the EU’s commitment to modernising border management and enhancing security measures across member states. By leveraging advanced technology and data-driven insights, the EES aims to strengthen border controls, prevent illegal activities, and improve the overall travel experience for visitors to the Schengen area. As travel regulations evolve to meet new security challenges, British travellers are advised to familiarise themselves with the EES requirements before embarking on their next trip to EU destinations.