As British holidaymakers look forward to autumn getaways to favorite European destinations like Spain, Italy, Greece, and France, they should be ready for significant changes at border control. Beginning this October, the way UK travelers enter and leave countries in the European Union’s Schengen area will change dramatically. The familiar passport stamp — a nostalgic keepsake for many — will be replaced by a new digital system known as the Entry Exit System (EES).
The Entry Exit System (EES): What You Need to Know
The EES is a new, EU-wide digital border management system recently adopted by the European Parliament. Designed to improve security and streamline travel within the Schengen Zone, it will digitally record the arrival and departure of every visitor. This applies to all non-EU nationals — including UK passport holders, who now travel as “third-country” citizens in the EU after Brexit.
When crossing a border, the EES will automatically capture key personal information, including facial scans, fingerprints, passport details, and the exact date and place of entry or exit. Travelers don’t need to fill out any forms or register in advance — the process happens automatically the first time they encounter Schengen border control under this system.
Timeline and Implementation
The EU plans to launch the EES at airports, ferry ports, and land borders across all 29 Schengen countries starting in October 2025, with a phased rollout. Initially, it will operate at major entry points, and by the end of the year, it should be fully implemented at all external Schengen borders.
According to the European Commission’s migration and home affairs department, the data of frequent visitors will be securely stored for three years, or for as long as their travel document is valid. This means that regular UK travelers should experience faster border crossings after their first registration, as their biometric data will already be on file.
First Stop: The Border — What to Expect
While the EES promises smoother travel in the long run, authorities warn that the initial phase could lead to longer waits and queues at border control. Airports, ferry operators, and border agencies across Europe have expressed concerns about increased processing times, especially during the early months when all travelers will need to register their biometric details and passport data.
The UK government has acknowledged in its travel advice that British visitors should expect potential delays at Schengen borders. Therefore, travelers are encouraged to allow extra time in their schedules, particularly during busy holiday seasons or peak travel hours. Border crossing times at the outset may even double or triple during busy periods.
Why Is the EES Being Introduced?
The main goal of the EES is to strengthen border security and improve immigration control within the EU. By digitally tracking entry and exit dates, authorities will more easily identify visitors who exceed the 90-day limit permitted within any 180-day period in the Schengen zone.
This system will enhance the EU’s ability to enforce immigration laws, detect overstays, and prevent irregular migration — key concerns in ongoing EU policy discussions. In practice, EES will give border authorities real-time information, allowing for quicker and more efficient border checks.
What About ETIAS?
The EES is also closely linked to another upcoming requirement — the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS). Once implemented, ETIAS will require travelers from visa-exempt countries (including the UK) to apply online for authorization before entering the Schengen zone. Together, the EES and ETIAS will form the backbone of the EU’s future travel and immigration system, making it even more important for travelers to stay informed about these new requirements.
Tips for UK Travelers
If you’re planning a trip to the EU from October onward, here are some practical tips to help you prepare:
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Allow extra time at borders for biometric checks and possible delays.
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Check for the latest travel advice from the UK government and your airline before departure.
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Make sure your passport and travel documents are valid and up-to-date.
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Be patient and plan for delays, especially during peak travel times.
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Stay informed about the rollout of ETIAS and any other new travel requirements.
Embracing the Digital Travel Era
As British travelers adjust to these major changes, one thing is clear: the digital age has arrived at Europe’s borders. Although the nostalgic passport stamps will be missed, the new EES promises to make travel more secure and, eventually, faster and more efficient.
With good preparation and awareness of what’s coming, you can navigate the transition smoothly and continue enjoying your trips to Europe with minimal disruption. By staying informed and allowing for extra time, British holidaymakers can embrace these changes and look forward to many more memorable European adventures — even without the traditional stamp in their passports.