The European Union’s long-delayed Entry/Exit System (EES) will finally begin rolling out from 12 October 2025 — marking a major change for UK travelers entering the Schengen Area.
The system, which applies to non-EU nationals, is designed to enhance border security and better track who enters and leaves Europe. However, with new technology and extra steps required at border crossings, there are growing concerns about possible delays and traveller confusion during the early months of implementation.
What Is the Entry/Exit System (EES)?
The EES will automatically register travellers from non-EU countries — including the UK, US, and Canada — when they enter or exit participating European countries. The system records:
- Name and passport details
- Biometric data (facial scan and fingerprints)
- Date and place of entry and exit
This information is stored in a secure database for up to three years and will replace the traditional passport stamping process. The goal is to make borders more secure while helping authorities identify overstays beyond the 90-day limit within any 180-day period.
Gradual Rollout Across Europe
Because of the scale and complexity of the system, the EES will be introduced gradually over the next six months.
According to The Independent, only Estonia, Luxembourg, and the Czech Republic will have full implementation from 12 October. Other countries will follow in stages:
- Switzerland – Basel and Geneva airports begin 12 October, Zurich follows 17 November, with full rollout by March 2026.
- Germany – Düsseldorf launches first, with Frankfurt and Munich coming online later.
- Spain – Will conduct its first live trial at Madrid Airport on 12 October before full implementation across major airports.
What About Travellers from the UK?
UK holidaymakers heading to Europe will experience the new system differently depending on how they travel.
- Airports: At airports where the EES is live, UK travellers will use self-service kiosks to scan passports and complete a short biometric check before proceeding to border control.
- Eurotunnel and Dover: French border officers will handle EES registration for travellers departing via the Port of Dover, Eurotunnel Folkestone, and Eurostar at London St Pancras.
- From 12 October, only freight and coach traffic will be subject to the checks.
- Car passengers will join the system from 1 November.
- For Eurostar, EES checks will initially apply only to Business and Premium Class travellers, before expanding to all passengers in January 2026.
Will There Be Delays?
Industry leaders have warned that travellers should be prepared for longer processing times during the first few months of the rollout.
Julia Lo Bue-Said, Chief Executive of the Advantage Travel Partnership, told the BBC:
“The concern will be, when you have flights arriving at one of these airports at the same time — it’s already a bottleneck. This is going to add even more of an issue.”
Travelers are advised to arrive at airports three to four hours before departure, especially during the early implementation period.
Meanwhile, Eurostar has confirmed it will double the number of EES booths at London St Pancras to reduce queue times, while also allowing passengers to board earlier to ease congestion.
How Travellers Can Prepare
If you’re due to travel to the EU soon, here are a few simple steps to make the process smoother:
- Check your passport validity – Ensure it’s valid for at least three months beyond your return date.
- Arrive early – Allow additional time at airports, ferry ports, and train terminals.
- Follow local guidance – Border procedures may differ slightly depending on your destination.
- Stay updated – Look out for official messages from your airline, travel provider, or tour operator before you depart.
Looking Ahead
The EU’s Entry/Exit System is one of the most significant changes to European border control in decades. Once fully operational, it’s expected to improve efficiency, security, and data accuracy across Schengen borders — but travellers should expect teething problems in the short term.
For now, if you’re travelling from the UK to Europe this winter, plan ahead, allow extra time, and keep an eye on your airline or tour operator’s updates.
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