In a significant shift for travel to and from the European Union, the European Commission has confirmed that the much-discussed and repeatedly delayed Entry/Exit System (EES) will finally be implemented starting October 12, 2025. The rollout will take place gradually across all external EU borders and is expected to be fully operational by April 9, 2026.
The new automated system will apply to all travelers from non-EU countries, including the United Kingdom, and aims to replace manual passport stamping to increase efficiency and security at the EU’s borders.
What changes for travelers
Under the new rules, every non-EU traveler entering the Schengen Area for the first time will be required to provide fingerprints and a facial photograph (biometric data), which will be stored in the system for up to three years.
Children under the age of 12 will be exempt from fingerprinting, but not necessarily from having their photo taken.
The EES will also record the date and place of entry and exit from the EU, helping authorities detect more easily any overstays beyond the allowed 90 days within a 180-day period for most visitors from third countries.
From a “big bang” to gradual rollout
Originally, the system was planned for a single, EU-wide launch in November 2024, but the process was delayed. Major reasons included technical concerns from member states such as Germany and France, which felt the system had not been adequately tested for such a large-scale deployment.
With the decision to roll it out gradually, the risk of issues and delays at border controls is reduced—especially during peak travel times like the October school holidays, when many British travelers will be among the first to experience the new process.
Until full implementation, border officers will continue manually stamping passports, alongside trial operations of the EES.
What’s next: ETIAS and increased fees
In a second phase, from October to December 2026, the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) will come into force. Similar to the U.S. ESTA, all visitors from visa-exempt countries—including the UK, U.S., and Canada—will be required to apply online for travel authorization before their trip.
The ETIAS fee, initially set at €7, is expected to increase to €20, sparking criticism from the travel industry.
Preparing and informing travelers
ABTA CEO Mark Tanzer welcomed the confirmation of the EES start date, emphasizing the importance of timely communication with travelers.
“Announcing October 12 as the launch date brings clarity to the travel sector and allows ABTA members to begin informing their clients about the upcoming changes,” said Mr. Tanzer. He also stressed the need for clear and consistent communication from both the EU and the UK government to prevent confusion and panic among passengers.
ABTA, he noted, will provide informational materials to its members and urged EU member states to adopt the EES app, which will allow travelers to pre-register their data, significantly reducing processing times at airports and ports.
- The new EU technological system marks a major step toward digitizing border checks, but also presents challenges for travel businesses and passengers. As the launch approaches, adequate preparation and clear communication will be key to a smooth transition into the new era of European travel.
