EU to Introduce Entry/Exit System This Autumn: What Travelers Need to Know
The EU’s Entry/Exit System (EES) will be phased in from October 2025 to April 2026, replacing manual passport checks with biometric registration across 29 Schengen countries and impacting UK travelers at Dover, Eurostar, and Eurotunnel crossings.
From October, the EU’s long-delayed Entry/Exit System (EES) will be introduced across 29 Schengen countries. The digital system aims to enhance security and simplify travel by replacing manual passport stamping with automated biometric checks.
Phased Rollout Schedule
The European Commission confirmed the rollout begins on 12 October, with full coverage by 10 April 2026. Dover’s coach and ferry passengers start on 12 October, followed by other tourist traffic on 1 November. Eurostar and Eurotunnel crossings also begin phased implementation from mid-October.
Biometric Registration Process
On their first trip, UK and other non-EU travelers will register fingerprints and a photograph at kiosks or with border officers. At airports, registration occurs upon arrival. Channel crossings at Dover, Eurotunnel, and Eurostar terminals rely on self-service kiosks where travelers scan passports, provide biometrics, and answer four simple trip-related questions.
Concerns and Mitigations
Authorities worry that registration queues could cause delays, especially at Dover’s compact terminals. Dover and Eurotunnel plan to deploy kiosks and can revert to manual stamping if necessary during peaks. Eurostar’s initial limited rollout for business travelers aims to ease transition.
Looking Ahead: ETIAS
Following EES, the EU will launch the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) by late 2026. Non-EU citizens who do not require a visa will apply online and pay a €20 fee, valid for three years. Applicants under 18 or over 70 are exempt from the fee.
The Entry/Exit System marks a major shift in EU border control, promising stronger security and faster processing but requiring travelers to adapt to biometric registration.
This topic was reported by BBC News.
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