From 12 October 2025, the European Union will introduce a new Entry/Exit System (EES). This will change how British and other non-EU nationals travel to and from countries in the Schengen area which includes most EU countries, plus others such as Switzerland, Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein.

The EES will gradually replace the traditional passport stamping process with a digital record of your travel. It’s expected to be fully in place by April 2026.

How will it work?

When the new system begins, there are a few simple steps you’ll need to follow when travelling to Europe:

• On your first trip after October 2025, you’ll need to register your details at border control.
• This involves providing fingerprints and having your photograph taken. You’ll do this at a self-service kiosk or with a border officer.
• Once registered, your information will be saved for three years, so you won’t need to repeat the process each time you travel.
• Your entry and exit will then be recorded automatically whenever you cross the border. Checks are expected to only take 1-2 minutes per person. 
• There’s no cost for this, and you don’t need to register in advance. Everything happens at the border as part of the normal process.

What this means for UK travellers

• If you travel by plane, registration will happen on arrival in the Schengen country.
• If you travel through Dover, Eurotunnel (Folkestone), or St Pancras International, registration will take place before you leave the UK.
• You might also be asked to confirm your details when exiting the Schengen area.
• The usual 90 days in any 180-day limit for short stays still applies. 

How to prepare

• Allow extra time for border checks, especially during the early months of the system.
• Be ready to give your fingerprints and photo on your first trip.
• Know where registration happens depending on your travel route.

For any additional information on the new EES requirements please visit: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/eu-entryexit-system

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