What the New EES Means for Your European Adventures

Article in collaboration with the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).

Whether you’re hearing about EES for the very first time or you’ve already come across it, the system officially launches on 12th October 2025. Here’s your guide to understanding what EES is, how it will work, and, most importantly, how (and if) it will affect your travels to Europe.

What Is EES and Who Does It Affect?

EES, or the EU Entry/Exit System, is a new digital border check for the Schengen area. Most non-EU travellers, including British citizens, will need to provide fingerprints and a photo when entering or leaving for the first time after EES launches.

EES will apply to non-EU citizens and non-EU residents entering the Schengen area for a short stay. You don’t need to do anything before you travel. It all happens at the border and only takes a few minutes. Eventually, EES will replace passport stamping.

What Countries Are Included?

The Schengen area includes:

Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.

Note: EES does not apply to travel to the Republic of Ireland or Cyprus.

When Is EES Being Introduced?

EES launches on 12th October 2025, but it will be introduced in stages, so border rules may vary until April 2026. You may encounter different requirements depending on the port where you enter or exit the Schengen area so it is important to check the rules for your port of entry. 

Do I Need To Pay for EES or Get a Visa?

No, there is no charge for EES registration. British citizens also don’t need a visa for short trips to the EU or Schengen area if you’re visiting for tourism (or similar reasons) and staying up to 90 days in any 180-day period. It doesn’t matter how many countries you visit, but make sure you haven’t spent more than 90 days total in the Schengen area during that time.

Will I Have To Do This Every Time I Travel?

You will only have to create a full digital record on the first visit to the Schengen area, or if it is more than 3 years since your last record creation. If you return to the Schengen area within 3 years, you will have a faster process by only needing to update your existing digital record and provide one biometric (i.e. fingerprints or a facial image) at the point of entry and exit.

What if I Am Transiting Through an EU Port?

If you need to pass through border controls as part of a transit stop, you will be required to complete EES registration. It would be advisable to leave a longer transit time to ensure you can make your connection. 

Could My Travels Be Delayed?

During the launch of EES, you will need to complete your biometrics, so some delays at border control are possible. Registration should only take 1–2 minutes per person, but waiting times may vary by location. At busy ports like Dover, Eurotunnel, and St Pancras, checks are done before departure, which can add extra time. If you’re unsure, just check with your travel advisor, who can advise on when to arrive.

…All Set for Your Adventure? ✈️

No matter how many times you’ve travelled through Europe, EES is new for everyone. That’s why it’s important to make sure you have all the information you need before your trip. If you have any questions about EES or your upcoming adventure, don’t hesitate to reach out to your travel advisor! You can contact us by email, live chat, WhatsApp, or phone, and we’ll make sure you feel confident and ready to start your journey. To read more about EES, visit FCDO’s Travel Aware page and always check Travel Advice for your destination before you travel.