New European travel regulations under the EES and their commencement dates explained.
The United Kingdom government has issued new travel advice regarding the European Union's Entry/Exit System (EES), which will come into force on 12 October 2025. This automated system aims to streamline border control for short-stay visitors to Schengen area countries, including Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland.
The EES registration requirements apply to all travellers, including babies, and will involve passport scanning, fingerprinting, and photographing. For travellers using the Port of Dover, Eurotunnel at Folkestone, or Eurostar at St Pancras International, the EES process will take place at the border before they leave the UK. Children under the age of 12 years old will not be fingerprinted.
The EES registration is valid for a rolling three-year period or until the passport document used expires. It is important to note that the EES will not be required when traveling to Ireland and Cyprus.
Despite efforts to ensure the required infrastructure is in place, there may still be issues with the EES implementation. British citizens covered by Withdrawal Agreement residence documents and UK-EU dual citizens using their EU passports will be exempt from the new EES requirements.
The implementation of the EES is being phased in over a six-month period, with varying requirements until April 2026. Anyone planning a trip to the European mainland once the EES checks are introduced should allow more time for their journey as the new EU systems bed in.
The coordination of the establishment and operation of the EU's Entry/Exit System (EES) in the Schengen states will be managed nationally by each member state's Internal Security System. For example, in Portugal, the Internal Security System ensures national coordination of this technological platform.
The UK government is in constant dialogue with European partners to try and minimize the impact of the EES on the British public. While there may still be teething problems with the EES implementation, despite an outlay of £10.5 million (approximately €12.1 million), it is intended to minimize disruption, particularly at peak periods.
It is crucial for travellers to stay informed about the EES requirements and any updates, as the new system is designed to enhance security while facilitating travel to the Schengen area.
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