If you travel from the UK to Europe, border procedures are changing. The EU Entry/Exit System (EES) is now being introduced across the Schengen area, with a separate online travel authorisation system, ETIAS, expected to follow during 2026.
This page explains what EES means in practical terms, where it applies, and what UK travellers should expect when crossing European borders.
The Entry/Exit System (EES) is a digital border management system introduced by the European Union for non-EU nationals travelling to the Schengen area for short stays (up to 90 days in any 180-day period).
EES replaces manual passport stamping with an electronic record. It logs:
• the date and place of entry and exit
• biometric data, including a facial image and fingerprints (normally collected on first use)
Once enrolled, future crossings should be quicker where systems are fully operational.
EES began its phased introduction on 12 October 2025. Border points across Europe are adopting the system gradually, with full operational rollout expected by April 2026.
During this transition period, travellers may notice longer processing times at some airports, ferry ports, and international rail terminals.
EES applies when entering the Schengen area.
EU Schengen countries:
Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden.
Non-EU Schengen countries:
Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Switzerland.
Ireland
Cyprus
These countries are not part of the Schengen area, so EES checks are not used for entry.
Bulgaria and Romania are now full members of the Schengen area, including land borders.
Cyprus is an EU member but is not yet part of Schengen. It has stated an intention to join in the future, with 2026 often referenced, but this is subject to EU approval and readiness checks.
ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) is a separate requirement from EES.
It will be an online travel authorisation for visa-free travellers, including UK passport holders, visiting certain European countries for short stays.
ETIAS is currently expected to be introduced during 2026. Travellers will need to apply online before travel, and a small fee will apply. No action is required at this stage.
Entry rules and border procedures can change and are enforced by local border authorities. Travellers are responsible for ensuring their documentation is valid and that they meet all entry requirements at the time of travel.
For the most up-to-date official information, refer to:
https://travel-europe.europa.eu/ees
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/eu-entryexit-system
https://travel-europe.europa.eu/en/etias
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