1. EU Entry/Exit System (EES)

• What it is:

  The EES is an automated IT system replacing manual passport stamping for non-EU/Schengen nationals entering or exiting the Schengen area. It registers personal and travel data to monitor border crossings and enforce the Schengen short-stay rules. 

• Where is applies:

  25 EU countries (excluding Cyprus and Ireland) plus Norway, Iceland, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein.

• Key Features

  • Launch date: 12 October 2025, with phased implementation over 180 days.

  • Data captured: Name, travel document type, biometric data (fingerprints, facial image), date and place of entry/exit.

  • Biometric collection: First entry requires fingerprints and facial image capture; subsequent visits will be verified against stored data.

  • Data retention: Normally erased three years after last trip for data protection.

  • Exemptions:

    • Children under 12 (no fingerprints required).

    • Long-stay visa holders.

    • Legal residents in EU countries.

    • Nationals of countries requiring a visa (fingerprints already collected during visa application).

      
      

• Implementation Timeline

  • Phased roll-out: Countries may introduce EES gradually over 180 days from launch.

  • Full operation expected: 10 April 2026.

  • Support tools: Optional smartphone app for pre-registration (fingerprints still required at border).

     

• UK Border Impact

  • Affected locations: Port of Dover, Eurostar (St Pancras), Eurotunnel (Folkestone).

  • French border checks in UK: Permitted under reciprocal UK–France agreements.

  • Operational changes:

    • Passengers, including vehicle occupants, will need to leave their cars to use registration kiosks.

    • New EES processing site at Dover’s Western Docks.

    • St Pancras and Folkestone terminals fitted with registration kiosks.

  • Industry concerns: Potential delays, especially for vehicle passengers.

  • UK Government response: Financial support for infrastructure upgrades (announced August 2024).

• Link to Schengen Short-Stay Rules

  • EES will enforce the 90 days in any 180-day short-stay limit.

  • Tracks overstayers and refusals of entry.

  • Ireland remains outside Schengen and will not operate EES.

2. European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) 

• What it is:

  ETIAS is an Electronic travel authorisation for non-EU/Schengen nationals from visa-waiver countries (including the UK). It is designed to enhance border security and pre-screen travellers.

• Where it applies:

  It is required for entry to all EU Member States (except Ireland), plus the four non-EU Schengen countries (Norway, Iceland, Switzerland and Liechtenstein). 

   

    

• Implementation and Cost

  • Launch date: Expected late 2026 (after EES becomes operational).

  • Application process: Online or via a mobile app, with checks against EU security and border databases.

  • Authorisation Validity: 3 years or until passport expiry, whichever comes first.

  • Cost:

    • €20 for travellers aged 18–70 ( increased from €7 to €20 in July 2025. )

    • Free for under-18s and over-70s.

  • Exemptions:

    • UK nationals and family members with Withdrawal Agreement rights (residing in the EU before 31 Dec 2020)– exempt with proof of status.

    • Holders of residence permits in any ETIAS-participating country.

• Comparisons with other systems:

  • US ESTA: $21, valid for 2 years.

  • UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA): £16, valid for 2 years (required for EU visitors from 2 April 2025).

Key Takeaways for Travellers and Businesses

• Plan ahead: First-time travel after October 2025 may take longer due to biometric registration at borders.

• Expect disruption: Border delays are likely during the roll-out, particularly at high-traffic UK–EU routes.

• Budget for new fees: ETIAS will add a €20 cost per traveller aged 18–70.

• Stay compliant: The EES will automatically track your days in the Schengen area. The EES data will be used to enforce Schengen stay limits and detect overstayers.