Starting in October 2025, travellers from outside the European Union—including those from the UK, US, Canada, and Australia—will face new biometric checks when entering the Schengen Area. This update is part of the EU Entry/Exit System (EES) rollout, designed to streamline border control and improve security.
What Is the EU Entry/Exit System (EES)?
The EES EU entry exit system is an automated IT system that will replace passport stamping for non-EU visitors. Instead, it will digitally record:
- Fingerprints or facial images
- The date and place of entry and exit
- Records of refusals of entry (if any)
The system applies to short-stay travellers who do not require a visa and those holding short-stay, single- or multiple-entry visas.
Official source: European Commission – Entry/Exit System (EES)
Who Will Be Affected?
Anyone from outside the EU/Schengen zone travelling for tourism, business, or transit up to 90 days within a 180-day period will be required to register biometric data. This includes citizens of:
- The United Kingdom
- The United States
- Canada
- Australia
- Other visa-exempt countries
These new checks will apply at airports, seaports, and land borders across the Schengen zone.
Expect Delays at Borders
During the initial rollout, longer wait times are expected, particularly at busy entry points like:
- Port of Dover (UK)
- Eurostar terminals
- Channel Tunnel terminals
Estimates suggest vehicle checks could take up to 5–7 minutes, significantly longer than current processing times. Travellers are advised to arrive earlier and prepare documents in advance.
Why Is Introducing the EU Exit Entry System EES
The EU believes the EES will:
- Enhance border security
- Speed up future entries for frequent travellers
- Replace outdated manual passport stamping
According to the European Commission, this system will also help identify overstayers and detect the misuse of travel documents.
Official source: EU Commission Q&A on the EES
Coming Next: ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System)
Following EES, the EU will introduce ETIAS in 2026–2027. Similar to the U.S. ESTA, ETIAS will require visa-exempt travellers to:
- Fill out an online application
- Pay a small fee (approx. €7)
- Obtain approval before travel
Once approved, ETIAS will be valid for three years for multiple short trips.
Official source: European Commission – ETIAS Overview
Tips for Non-EU Travellers
To avoid unnecessary delays and ensure a smooth journey:
- Check EES and ETIAS updates before booking travel
- Make sure your passport is valid for at least 3 months beyond your stay
- Allow extra time for border processing
- Follow alerts from airlines, rail operators, and ferry companies
Final Thoughts
These upcoming changes mark one of the most significant updates to European travel procedures in decades. While the Entry/Exit System may cause some short-term delays, it is designed to create a more secure and efficient travel experience in the long run. As ETIAS follows in the next phase, staying informed and prepared will be key for anyone planning to visit the EU.
For official updates and detailed FAQs, visit:
European Commission – Entry/Exit System
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