Important News for Travellers: The New EU Entry/Exit System

If you travel to Europe from the UK, there's important new information you need to know. The European Union (EU) is introducing a new system called the Entry/Exit System (EES). This will change how non-EU citizens, including people from the UK, enter and leave many European countries.

From 12 October 2025, the EU will introduce new border checks known as the Entry/Exit system (EES). This will change requirements for British and other non-EU citizens travelling to Europe.

When introduced, you may need to submit your fingerprints, have your photo taken and your passport scanned at dedicated booths.

At D&A Solicitors, we know that many of our clients travel to Europe, whether for family visits, holidays, or business. We want to make sure you understand these changes, especially as the system aims to make borders more efficient.

What is the Entry/Exit System (EES)?

The EES is a new, automated system that will electronically register non-EU citizens each time they cross an external EU border. This means it will keep track of when you enter and leave 29 European countries.

Why is it being introduced? The EU wants to make border control faster and more modern. It also wants to make sure people do not overstay their allowed time in the Schengen Area (which is usually 90 days in any 180-day period).

Which Countries Will Use EES?

The EES will be used by all EU member countries that are part of the Schengen area, and also by some non-EU countries that are part of the Schengen area. This includes popular destinations like:

France

Spain

Italy

Germany

Portugal

Greece

The Netherlands

Belgium

And many more!

It will also apply to countries like Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland.

Who Will EES Affect?

The EES will affect all non-EU citizens who need to show a passport when they enter these countries. This includes:

British citizens (who do not have EU citizenship)

Citizens of other non-EU countries

This means most of D&A Solicitors' clients who travel from the UK to these European destinations.

Important: If you are an EU citizen, or if you have a residence permit for an EU country (like a spouse of an EU citizen), the EES rules might not affect you in the same way. Always check your specific situation.

What Will Change at the Border?

When you travel to one of these European countries, instead of just a stamp in your passport, the EES will collect some information electronically:

Your Passport Details: Your name, type of travel document, issue date, expiry date, etc.

Your Fingerprints: You will need to provide your fingerprints.

A Facial Image: A photograph of your face will be taken.

Date and Place of Entry/Exit: The system will record exactly when and where you crossed the border.

You will do this at an automated self-service kiosk or with a border guard.

When Will EES Start?

From 12 October 2025, the EU will introduce new border checks known as the Entry/Exit system (EES).

What Do You Need to Do?

Check Your Passport: Make sure your passport is valid for at least 3 months after your planned return date and was issued less than 10 years ago.

Be Prepared for New Steps: Allow a little extra time at the border when you travel, especially the first time, as you will need to go through the new registration process (fingerprints, photo).

Stay Informed: Keep an eye on official UK government travel advice (www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice) and the EU's official websites for the latest updates.

What About the ETIAS?

You might also hear about ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System). This is a separate system, like an electronic travel authorisation, which will also start in the future. EES is about registering your entry and exit, while ETIAS will be about authorisation to travel before you even leave the UK. We will share more information about ETIAS when it is closer to being introduced.

D&A Solicitors is Here to Help

Understanding new travel rules can be confusing, especially if English is not your first language. We hope this explanation helps. Our team at D&A Solicitors is always here to provide clear and professional advice on a range of legal matters. While we don't advise on travel logistics, we can help with immigration and residency questions that might arise from your travel plans.

If you have concerns about your legal status or how these changes might impact your residency in the UK or your family's ability to travel, please don't hesitate to contact us.