Key takeaways
EES rollout begins October 2025
Biometric border checks will replace passport stamping.
ETIAS travel authorisation launches in 2026
UK travellers must apply before short stays in Europe.
Prepare early for smoother travel
Understand new systems to avoid delays or refusals.
Planning a trip to Europe in 2025 or 2026? EES and ETIAS explained
Starting 12 October 2025, the European Union will begin a progressive rollout of the Entry/Exit System (EES); a new digital border control system for non-EU nationals entering 29 European countries for short stays (up to 90 days within any 180-day period). The EES will replace manual passport stamping with a biometric and automated system that records:
Date and place of entry/exit
Biometric data (fingerprints and facial images)
Travel document details
This system represents a forward-thinking approach to modern border management. It is designed to strengthen national security by enhancing border controls, enable the timely identification of travellers who overstay their visas, and significantly reduce instances of identity fraud. At the same time, it aims to create a more streamlined and efficient experience for travellers gradually reducing waiting times in passport control queues with automated border controls.
Over the next six months, the EES will be gradually introduced at the external borders of 29 European countries. Biometric data collection, including facial images and fingerprints, will be added in stages, meaning travellers may not encounter the new procedures at every crossing point right away. Passport stamping will continue as usual during this period.
Your travel document data and other personal data will be collected, including your entry and exit dates, and will be registered electronically in the system. If you overstay the period allowed in the European countries using the EES, the system will identify you and record this information.
The EES is expected to be fully in place by 10 April 2026.
ETIAS due to launch in Q4 2026: What does it mean for your Europe trip?
ETIAS:
a new travel authorisation for visa-exempt travellers entering Europe. Once operational, it will be required for short stays (up to 90 days in any 180-day period) in the participating countries.
The travel authorisation is not a visa, but functions similarly to the ESTA in the United States or Canada’s eTA. Nationals of any of the visa-exempt countries would need to apply for the ETIAS prior to travelling.
Expected to launch in the last quarter of 2026, with the exact date to be announced by the European Commission several months in advance. No action is required from travellers at this stage.
Will be valid for 3 years or until the passport expires – whichever comes first and will cover short stays for tourism, transit or medical reasons. Long term stays will require a visa or residence permit.
Therefore, UK nationals will need a valid ETIAS to travel to participating countries for short stays. There are certain exceptions to this. Longer stays will require a visa or residence permit, depending on the entry requirements of the destination country.
UK – Electronic Travel Authorisation
Meanwhile, the UK has already introduced its own digital pre-travel requirement: the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). This applies to non-visa Visitors who do not require a visa and are travelling to the UK for tourism, family visits, and/or short stays (up to 6 months).
The ETA costs £16 and is valid for multiple entries over two years or until the passport expires. For more information, please refer to our article: Final stage of the ETA roll out | Hill Dickinson
Shaping the Future of Border Management
The rollout of the EU’s EES and ETIAS systems marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of international travel and border security. By understanding the implications early and guiding stakeholders through the transition, we can help shape a more secure, efficient, and transparent travel ecosystem. Thoughtful engagement today will define tomorrow’s mobility landscape.
At Hill Dickinson, our Business Immigration team are closely monitoring these developments. If you have questions about how the EES, ETIAS, or the UK’s ETA may impact your travel plans or workforce mobility, please don’t hesitate to reach out for tailored guidance and expert support.
FAQs
What happens at the border on or after 12 October 2025?
When the EES is introduced, you may need to create a digital record on your first visit to the Schengen area at the port or airport on arrival. You will need to submit your fingerprints and have your photo taken at dedicated booths. Your digital EES record is valid for 3 years. If you enter the Schengen area again during this time, you will only need to provide a fingerprint or photo at the border, when you enter and exit.
Who is considered a 'non-EU national' under EES?
Under the EES, a ‘non-EU national’ is anyone who doesn’t hold citizenship of an EU country, or of Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, or Switzerland.
Do I need a biometric passport?
No, a biometric passport is not required to enter EES countries. However, if you wish to use automated border control systems (e.g. eGates), a biometric passport is necessary. Manual checks remain available for travellers with non-biometric passports.
