When does it start?
The European Union’s long-awaited Entry/Exit System (EES) is scheduled to launch on 12 October 2025, with a phased rollout continuing until April 2026. During this transition, border staff may still stamp passports manually, but the plan is for EES to fully replace stamps once the system is running across all Schengen external borders.
Why is the EES being introduced?
The EES is being brought in to modernise how Europe manages its borders. Key goals include:
- Replacing old passport stamps with a digital system that automatically records entry and exit dates.
- Improving security by making it easier to spot overstayers, detect identity fraud, and prevent irregular migration.
- Speeding up processing - although there may be longer queues during the early rollout, the long-term plan is faster, more reliable checks.
What will change for UK travellers?
Biometric registration
From October 2025, UK citizens (along with other non-EU nationals visiting for short stays) will need to register biometric data - a photo and fingerprints - the first time they enter the Schengen area after the system goes live.
What biometric data will be taken?
- Adults: facial image and fingerprints will be required.
- Children under 12: facial image only, no fingerprints.
Once you’re registered, future trips should be quicker, as your details will already be stored in the system.
Where will data be taken?
Those arriving by plane will have the biometric data taken upon arrival at the border in the same way a passport used to be stamped at the border. Due to border arrangements, checks for UK travellers heading into the Schengen zone via the transport methods below will often take place before departure in the UK. This will affect travel at:
- Dover ferry port
- Cruise terminals
- Eurotunnel at Folkestone
- London St Pancras (Eurostar)
Travel delays
Expect longer waits at first - registering biometrics takes more time than a simple passport stamp. Processing at kiosks may take a couple of minutes per traveller, especially at busy times. The EU and UK operators are investing in extra staff and infrastructure to help manage queues.
Benefits over time
- Faster repeat crossings once registered.
- Automatic tracking of days spent in Schengen (no more calculating the “90 days in 180” rule by hand).
- A more secure system with less chance of human error.
Possible border control questions
Even with the new automated system, border guards may still ask questions to check you meet Schengen entry requirements. Be prepared to answer:
- Why are you travelling (tourism, business, visiting family, etc.)?
- Where will you be staying (hotel booking, address of host, etc.)?
- Do you have enough money to cover your stay?
- Do you have valid medical cover?
- Do you have a ticket proving when you’ll leave?
The EES is one of the biggest changes to European border controls in decades. While the first few months may mean slower queues and a learning curve for travellers, the system is designed to make border crossings smoother in the long run.
Tip: Leave extra time for your journey, keep proof of funds, accommodation and travel insurance handy, and make sure you have travel insurance. Once you’re registered, your future trips should be easier
Maria Hughes, our travel expert, has recently experienced the new EES ¶
My recent experience with the new Entry/Exit System (EES) at Rome Ciampino Airport was surprisingly smooth, though a bit unfamiliar at first.
After landing, I was directed to a dedicated area off to one side of the terminal with a long row of digital EES registration booths. The setup was clear, and the digital screen guided me in English through the steps I needed to take.
Entry/Exit System steps¶
The process itself had a few unexpected moments. First, I scanned my passport. Then, for fingerprinting, I initially assumed it would require only a single finger, but I needed to place four fingers on the scanner at once, which caught me slightly off guard.
Next came the facial and eye scan. The face recognition bar started quite high up, and for a second, I genuinely wondered if I’d need to stretch or jump to reach it - but amusingly, it automatically lowered into position to frame my face properly. Once it was adjusted, the scan was quick and straightforward.
After completing the registration, I proceeded to passport control, where similar EES booths are integrated. There, I had to scan my passport, fingers and face again to officially log my entry into the EU system. The process felt efficient and intuitive once I understood what was expected.
On departure from Rome Ciampino, the system was just as streamlined. The EES booths were again positioned at passport control, allowing me to register my exit. This step is particularly reassuring, as it ensures my time in the EU is accurately stopped upon departure.
Overall, while the technology takes a moment to get used to, the system at Rome Ciampino Airport felt modern, organised, and efficient. A few small surprises aside, it was a smooth experience and a clear step towards more automated border control.
Travel Insurance ¶
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