UK holidaymakers issued travel warning amid new airport rule

It comes as the Entry Exit System (EES) has been introduced, which is a new digital border control system for non-EU nationals entering the Schengen area for short stays (up to 90 days in any 180-day period).

It replaces manual passport stamping with electronic registration, improving border security and efficiency.

But as the system kicks off for the first time ahead of the busy Easter and summer period, holidaymakers could expect longer queues and potential delays due to lengthier processing times, and while border controls adjust to the new scheme.

How does the Entry Exit System work at airports in Europe for UK citizens?

People should be prepared to have their passports scanned and biometric data taken at border control the first time they enter via the EES.

Paul Paddock, CEO of Post Office Insurance at Post Office explained: “Biometric data including your facial image (all travellers) and fingerprints (visa-exempt travellers only) will be taken.

“The system will also be able to capture passport details, entry and exit dates and locations, and the duration of stay. 

“Data will be kept for three years for standard entries/exits or five years if you overstay.”

Paul continued: “For subsequent visits, the process will be faster due to the data already being stored. 

“It’s important to note that no pre-registration is required – registration happens at the border during your first entry.”

EU Entry/Exit System – what UK travellers need to know

Rachel Pennycook, Europe travel specialist at The Luxury Holiday Company added: “If this sounds familiar, it’s because the system began rolling out on 12 October 2025 and is being introduced gradually at airports, ports and land borders, with full implementation expected by April 2026, ahead of the summer half term.

“Because the UK is now outside the EU, British travellers are affected, even for short holidays to other European countries.”

See the full list of Schengen area countries using the Entry Exit System via the Holiday Extras website .

How Brits can avoid Europe airport delays due to EES in 2026

With this in mind, Brits, (particularly those heading to parts of the Schengen area for the first time), are being urged to plan ahead to prevent airport delays as much as possible.

Hannah Mayfield, a travel money expert working with PayingTooMuch has shared one important mistake UK residents need to avoid when it comes to approaching the Entry Exit System.

Hannah detailed: “Travellers may now be asked for the reason of travel and details of accommodation and proof that you have enough funds for your trip. 

“While these questions are typically asked via automated kiosks, answering ‘no’ to any of them could result in being referred to a border control officer for further questioning.”  

She also prompted Brits to ensure they have all the correct documents and any required visas well in advance of their departures as the key to avoiding any pitfalls with the new EES is “preparation”.

Hannah said: “This includes checking the date on your passport and having the correct paperwork and required visas to hand.

“As the EES system is automated, it will track your entry and exit dates and can also refuse entry, so keep an eye on your eligibility to stay and avoid overstaying your welcome in the Schengen area.   

Have you used an Entry Exit System yet? (Image: Gareth Fuller/PA)

“With the right planning, the system should make travel smoother and safer in the long run.

“However, understanding these changes in advance will help to avoid any unnecessary stress and help manage any initial teething problems.”

Paul agrees and recommends a checklist which includes an essential document reminder:  

• Check your passport expiry date (must be valid for at least three months after your trip for EU countries)  
• Know your entry airport’s EES setup (expect biometric checks)  
• Keep essential travel documents easily accessible, including passports, travel insurance, accommodation confirmation, and proof of onward or return travel 

For those planning to travel in the upcoming Easter or summer school holidays, Rachel also suggested people should arrive earlier than usual, keep travel documents easily accessible, and expect queues at peak times while the system beds in with likely “teething problems”.

It’s important to note Ireland and Cyprus are not part of the Schengen area where the EES applies, so UK nationals travelling there will continue to be checked and stamped manually.