The European Union (EU) has confirmed that the delayed Entry, Exit System (EES) will start a phased introduction starting 12th October 2025. This means that non-EU citizens, including UK passport holders, may be required to provide fingerprints and face scans at the EU border. This will be a phased introduction, with full implementation scheduled for April 2026. Most UK passport holders will have a biometric passport and will be permitted to use the EU’s e-gates.

Those planning to travel to the EU between now and October 2026 do not need to do anything in advance, but be aware that there may be some delays at border control as both passengers and border control officers get used to the new system.

Following the successful rollout of the entry, exit procedures, the EU will introduce an Electronic Travel Authorisation system (ETIAS). This will work similarly to the US ESTA and the new UK ETA. This is expected to be introduced between October and December 2026. Non-EU passport holders will be required to apply for and pay for an ETIAS before travel. You will be able to apply for the ETIAS using a web portal or mobile app, and the application will involve scanning your passport, a facial recognition scan, and submitting details about your visit. The ETIAS is expected to cost of ETIAS around 20 EUROS and will last for 3 years. You will not be able to apply for an ETIAS until an implementation date is announced.

The EES and ETIAS have suffered numerous delays, but these procedures are being introduced to increase security at the borders. As your local travel agent, we will be happy to support our customers with the introduction of these schemes, and I would encourage everyone to be aware of any potential scams that could arise with the introduction of these new procedures.

If you have any questions regarding this, please do get in touch.