If you’re heading on holiday to Europe any time soon, you’ll need to be aware of a landmark shift in border control procedures.
From October 12, a new digital Entry/Exit System (EES) will come into force across much of the continent, requiring all non-EU nationals, including British citizens, to register personal data when entering participating countries for short stays.
Although the rollout starts next week, the EES will happen gradually over the period from 12 October 2025 to 9 April 2026.
What is the ESS and who does it apply to?
The EES replaces manual passport stamping with a biometric and data-driven process. It impacts non-EU travellers visiting for up to 90 days within any 180-day period, affecting holidays, short business trips, and cross-border travel in the Schengen Area. The aim of the new process is to crack down on crime and enforce the 90-day stay limit.
What is the new ESS process?
The process will usually involve a scan of fingerprints and/or a photograph at border control. You may also be asked to register details at a self-service kiosk or a mobile app, if available. Those aged under 12 will only need a photo taken.
After initial registration, future crossings should be quicker, as passport control will simply verify stored data. E-passport holders can use self-service gates, identified by a small gold camera logo on the passport. However, additional time should be budgeted for possible queues and registration steps, especially during peak travel.
Your digital record will last for three years after each trip.
Countries that will have ESS
Countries adopting the EES include:
- Austria
- Belgium
- Bulgaria
- Croatia
- Czechia
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Italy
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Netherlands
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- Romania
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
Is there anything I need to do in advance of travel?
There is nothing to prepare for in advance of travelas the new process will happen at any ports of entry. The old system will still be in place in most countries as ESS is rolled out, but countries like Estonia, Luxembourg and the Czech Republic are reportedly ready for the new process from next week.
Are there any other new changes should I be aware of?
In 2026, something called the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) will come into placewhich means you’ll have to register for a “euro visa” but we have some time before that comes into force.
You’ll need to apply online for authorisation before travelling to participating countries and it’ll set you back £17.30 (or €20) and is valid for up to three years, or until the passport expires. Those under 18 or over 70 are exempt from the fee.
Key travel tips for Brits as the new rules come into force
- Allow extra time at border control when travelling to Europe, especially while the new Entry/Exit System (EES) is being introduced. Delays are possible as travellers register biometric data for the first time.
- Look out for self-service options — registration may be available at kiosks or via mobile apps to speed up the process once the system is fully in place.
- From late 2026, you’ll also need to apply and pay for ETIAS authorisation before visiting participating EU countries. Make sure it’s linked to your current passport and valid before each trip.
- Check official guidance before travelling and build in extra time at airports or border crossings to ensure a smooth journey. Millions of UK travellers are expected to be affected by the EES and ETIAS changes over the next year.
