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Travelling into Europe

What you need to know about the EES

From the 12th October 2025, the European Union will introduce the new Entry/Exit System (EES) – a digital border control process for travellers entering and leaving the Schengen Area.

What does that mean for you?

This system is designed to keep borders secure and running efficiently and will automatically record when you enter and leave the EU’s Schengen area rather than waiting for lengthy manual checks. Whilst there may be some disruption when the system is introduced, in the future this should mean less time waiting and more time enjoying your holiday!

EES will start on
12th October 2025

How does it work?
Read our FAQs!

Here’s how the system works:

Step 1

Self service kiosk
Self-service Kiosk

If you hold a biometric passport, you will be able to use a self-service kiosk to complete the initial checks. Border control officers will be available should you require assistance.

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Step 2

Facial and fingerprint scanning
Biometric Footprint

You will be asked to present your passport and provide biometric data, including a facial image and fingerprints. This is a straightforward digital process designed for speed and security.

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Step 3

Verification by a border guard
Verification

A border guard will then confirm your details from the kiosk before you continue your journey into Europe.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Entry/Exit System (EES) is a new digital border control process being introduced across participating European countries. Instead of manual passport stamping, the system will electronically register the time and place of your entry and exit, as well as the duration of your stay.

In essence, EES is designed to create a faster, more efficient, and more secure way of crossing borders.

The European Union is introducing the EES to improve both security and convenience for travellers. The system aims to:

  • Accelerate border checks, reducing waiting times.
  • Strengthen border security and protect European citizens.
  • Combat irregular migration.
  • Reduce the risk of identity and document fraud.

The overall objective is to make travel more straightforward while maintaining high levels of safety.

The EES applies to you if you are a non-EU national travelling for a short stay to a European country using the EES and you either:

  • Possess a short-stay visa; or
  • Do not need a visa to stay for a maximum of 90 days in any 180-day period.

The Entry/Exit System (EES) will begin on 12th October 2025. Implementation will be phased across participating European countries, with full implementation expected by 10th April 2026.

Yes. A valid passport will still be required when travelling. If you hold a biometric passport, you will be able to use the new EES self-service kiosks for faster processing.

If you do not have a biometric passport, you will still be permitted entry, but the checks will be completed manually. Please also note:

  • Your passport must be valid for at least three months after your intended departure date.
  • It must have been issued within the past 10 years.

The Entry/Exit System will be in operation across the 29 countries of the Schengen Area. This includes most EU member states, as well as Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein. The only EU countries not participating are Ireland and Cyprus.

There is no additional cost for using the Entry/Exit System. It is part of standard border control procedures, with no extra charges applied to your holiday.

Yes. Exemptions apply if:

  • You hold an Irish passport.
  • You are a British passport holder with EU residency.

Each time you travel into or out of a country using the system, your details will be recorded at the border. This includes:

  • Information from your passport (such as name and date of birth).
  • Dates and places of entry and exit.
  • Biometric data (facial image and fingerprints).
  • Any instances where entry was refused.

All information is securely stored in line with EU data protection regulations, ensuring border checks remain both efficient and safe.

Your information is collected to ensure safe, efficient, and secure travel. The Entry/Exit System is designed to:

  • Streamline and speed up border checks.
  • Monitor stays and prevent overstays or irregular immigration.
  • Detect fraudulent passports or false identities.
  • Assist in the prevention and investigation of serious crime.

This is required in accordance with Regulation (EU) 2017/2226, specifically Articles 14, 16 to 19 and 23 of Chapter II and Chapter III.

The system ultimately helps safeguard travellers and maintain the smooth operation of European borders.

Yes. Passport control officers can advise you of the maximum number of days remaining on your stay. You can also check this information using the official online tool or at designated border kiosks.

If you want to find out more about EES, read the full FAQs on the European Union website

Expert travel advice

For the latest travel advice from the Foreign & Commonwealth Office, visit travelaware.campaign.gov.uk

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