EU’s New Entry/Exit System (EES)
Beginning October 12, 2025, British travelers must deal with strict new entry rules when going to Europe. On that day, the EU’s Entry/Exit System (EES) will officially take the place manual passport stamping with automated biometric checks. Overall, tihs move aims to enhance border security and monitor non-EU visitors’ movements more efficiently.
How the EES Works
Specifically, the EES will record fingerprints, facial scans, and the dates of entry and exit. Correspondingly, EU authorities will store these records for three years.
Once the system has enrolled travelers, they can use e-gates for faster crossings, although not all locations will be ready immediately. According to EU data, the system will cover 29 Schengen countries by April 10, 2026.
New EU Travel Rules
Under the new rules, British travelers must show proof of medical insurance, a return or onward ticket, and sufficient funds. They will also need accommodation details before the EU grants them entry. If travelers answer no to any of the questions, a border officer might intervene and possibly deny them entry.
Previously, such checks were rare, but now they will apply to almost everyone. As such, failure to provide correct information could result in additional questioning or even entry denial.
EES Delays and Practical Concerns
Overall, the rollout could cause significant delays at busy entry points such as Dover and Eurostar terminals. In addition, officials warn that the initial biometric registration could take several minutes per passenger.
“More people are going to be asked these questions in the future than were in the past because most EES checks will be done at a kiosk,” explained travel trade body Abta director of public affairs, Luke Petherbridge, speaking to Time Out.
“Its primary function is digitising the border,” he added. “If you were to answer one of these questions in a way that you know wasn’t aligned with the answer they were looking for, you would be sent to a border guard. You wouldn’t necessarily be denied entry.”
Meanwhile, ferry operators and travel agencies are already advising travelers to arrive early.
What Comes Next: ETIAS
Following the EES, the EU will introduce the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) in 2026.
To clarify, the ETIAS will act like the US ESTA, requiring British travelers to apply online and pay around €20. Also, the authorization will last three years and cover multiple trips.
The European Commission estimates ETIAS will process over 50 million applications annually.
Advice for Travelers
To avoid delays, experts recommend preparing documents well before travel. Carry printed proof of insurance and accommodation, plus a physical return ticket if possible.
Additionally, check your passport’s validity since it must be less than ten years old on entry. Also, it must have at least three months left on departure. Furthermore, be aware that EES kiosks may have limited language options during the early phase.
A Post-Brexit Reality
Overall, these changes mark another post-Brexit shift in how British citizens travel to Europe. While the EES aims to improve security and streamline future crossings, the first months could be challenging. As such, preparation will be essential for smooth travel this autumn.
Photo by Jason Leung on Unsplash
