The delayed and much-talked-about Entry-Exit system (EES) is finally being launched, and this will change the way UK citizens pass through EU airports forever.
The system creates digital identities for travellers to replace passport stamping. Initially, there will be extra bureaucracy for the first six months (until 9 April 2026) and delays at airports is expected while the data is collected. Eventually, the passage through border points should be a breeze.
The European Commission says:
“To provide Member States with the necessary time to adjust to the start of operations of the EES, during the first 60 days of the progressive start of operations of the EES, the use of biometric functionalities at border crossing points should not be mandatory.”
The new system aims to flag those staying beyond 90 days in any 180 days, identify suspected criminals and identity fraud. Once complete, this will be the precursor for the ETIAS.
So here is the countdown:
- 12th October 2025, Biometrics and fingerprinting of travellers passing through EU airports begins. Not all border posts will be ready, but where the system is set up, it involves providing four of their fingerprints and a facial biometric. Children under 12 are exempt. At this stage, your passport will still be stamped. In the first 60 days, it is not mandatory. Delays are expected during this time. Border officers may ask for proof of financial resources and evidence of travel plans to leave. Those travelling to France will need to show medical insurance. After the initial setup, the next time you travel, only the biometric will be taken, and this will probably be facial.
- April 2026, the process is expected to be complete for all crossing points in and out of the Schengen area (includes the EU except Ireland and Cyprus, plus Iceland, Norway and Switzerland).
- 11 November 2025 will see one in 10 of all nations’ border crossings being registered.
- 11 December 2025 will see all frontier posts operating the entry-exit system, and every traveller will have their biometrics collected. There will still be some that are not EES-enabled. Passports continue to be stamped manually.
- 10 January 2026 will see member states operating with biometric functionalities at half of their crossings. The expectation is that 35 per cent of visitors will be EES-registered.
- 11 March 2026, all borders must be biometric-enabled and at least half the crossings must be registered on the central database.
- 31 March 2026, most citizens from third countries should be registered.
- 9 April 2026 if the EES is running flawlessly, passport stamping will end at midnight.
- 9 October 2026 (this date could change) will see the launch of the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (Etias). This online permit costs €20 (£17) and remains valid for three years. Those under 18 or over 70 will still need to apply for and hold an Etias, but it will be free.
Basic Requirements for Etias Approval
To apply for an Etias, you must meet these conditions:
- Have a valid passport from an eligible country. Travellers with biometric passports can experience faster processing at automated border control points.
- Be travelling for tourism, business, medical, or transit purposes (no long-term stays).
- Plan to stay in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within 180 days.
- Have no record of serious criminal offences or past violations of European immigration laws.
More info here.
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