Updated: 18/09/2025
Gone are the days when Brits could simply jump on a plane and head to Europe for some sun and Sangria. A new timeline has now been announced for the introduction of the EU’s Entry/Exit System (EES). The post-Brexit system was supposed to launch in 2022, but was rescheduled for May 2023 and then pushed back again.
The EES is set to launch on 12th October 2025 and will affect the majority of British holidaymakers heading into Europe and the four Schengen countries – Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland. The implementation will be phased over a six-month period, meaning until April 2026 you may encounter different border requirements at different ports where you enter and exit across the Schengen area. It is important to note, there is no charge associated with EES.
Ireland will not be implementing the new system and passports will be checked and stamped manually.
Following the introduction of the EES, all entries and exits to and from Europe will be digitally recorded. On arrival at the country’s airport, you will be expected to fill out personal details and have your biometrics (facial image and fingerprints) taken. Passports will also be checked, as normal.
It is expected that most British holidaymakers will pass through automated gates. You will be expected to present your passport, look into the camera to capture your facial image, place your fingers on the scanners (first entry only) and then confirm your reason for travel. It is unlikely you will be asked any further questions, but border officials may be present and carry out further checks, especially if it is your first entry under EES or the system flags that you have previously overstayed/unclear of travel reason.
In this event, you may be asked for evidence of sufficient funds for your trip and or your travel itinerary. Other questions you may be asked may include:
So it is important to have a copy of your travel documents to hand including a valid passport, your visa (if required), your travel insurance policy, proof of accommodation (hotel booking, Airbnb confirmation, host invitation) and a return or onward travel ticket (flight, ferry, train etc).
It is not yet known whether you will be refused entry to a country if you are unable to produce evidence if requested, but if this were to happen it is important to note that you will not be covered for any loss of expenses by your travel insurance provider.
If you are travelling via boat or train from London St Pancras, Dover or Folkstone, your information will be taken during your departure from the UK.
Those travelling on a cruise should be aware that EES requirements will vary depending on their departure and arrival ports. Those arriving and departing from the UK will generally be exempt from EES registration, unless they disembark the cruise and travel onwards into the Schengen area. It is advised that you speak directly to your cruise line or booking agent.
The EES will apply to people who are travelling for a total duration up to 90 days in a 180 day period. Those who are already citizens of the EU or Schengen countries and Brits who have EU residency will be exempt from the EES.
An app is due to be released which will allow you to input some of the required information before travelling. No other information is available regarding the EES app at this time.
Travellers looking to spend more than 90-days in the EU and Schengen area at one time, for example if you are backpacking in Europe, may need to apply for a visa. More information on the entry requirements for trips to Europe which exceed 90-days can be found on the Government Website.
For more information on EES and how it could affect your travel, please visit the Government Website: European Entry/Exit System – Travel Aware
The EES Checklist for Your Next Holiday
Bring with You:
- Valid passport (≤10 years old, 3+ months’ validity after trip)
- Visa (if required for your nationality)
- Travel insurance (recommended/mandatory in some cases)
- Proof of accommodation (hotel booking, rental, host invitation)
- Return or onward ticket (flight/train/ferry)
Proof You May Be Asked For:
- Evidence of sufficient funds (cash, bank statement, credit/debit card)
- Travel itinerary (countries/cities you plan to visit)
At the Border (EES Process):
- Present passport at automated gate or booth
- Facial scan
- Fingerprints (first entry only)
- Entry/exit recorded digitally (no more passport stamps)
Possible Questions:
- What is the purpose of your visit? (tourism, business, family, etc.)
- How long will you stay in Schengen?
- Which countries are you visiting?
- Where will you be staying?
- Do you have enough money for your trip?
- Do you have a return or onward ticket?
- Have you visited Schengen recently? (90/180-day rule check)
Special Notes:
- Frequent travellers: EES automatically tracks your days.
- Visa-required travellers: still need a Schengen visa.
- Residents/diplomats: some exemptions apply.
- Date to be confirmed: ETIAS authorisation will also be required for visa-exempt travellers (e.g., UK, US, Canada).
This isn’t the only change to travel that people need to be aware of. The European Travel Authorisation System (ETIAS) will be introduced later next year. The ETIAS will work similarly to the USA’s ESTA and will need to be applied for ahead of travel.
Anyone travelling to Europe, excluding Ireland, after the travel scheme is introduced will need to apply for an ETIAS.
While those who are under 18 and aged 70 or over will be able to apply for an ETIAS free of charge, everyone else will need to pay a fee. The ETIAS will then be valid for 3 years and will cover you for multiple trips during this time. Having said that, if your passport expires during the three years, or your ETIAS is due to expire while you’re on holiday you will need to apply for a new one before you travel. There are currently no live websites for the ETIAS, any websites asking for payment for an ESTIAS are likely to be scams.
It is believed the processing time will be between 30 minutes and 96 hours. With this in mind, you will need to ensure you allow enough time for your ETIAS to be processed before you are due to travel.
Those who have already booked a holiday for later in 2025, once the ESTIAS has been introduced, will need to apply in order to enter the EU and Schengen area. It is not yet known whether there will be a grace period for people who have already made bookings.
The costs associated with being denied entry to a country for not having the correct documentation or being refused an ESTIAS is not covered by travel insurance.
In addition, missed departures caused by delays due to the EES will not be covered by your travel insurance. It is recommended you allow plenty of time to pass through the new security measures.
This article provides general guidance only and may not reflect your personal circumstances. Entry rules and insurance cover vary by provider and country. Always check official government advice and your travel insurance policy before travelling.