Travelers are being alerted to a new system set to be implemented next month for entry and exit into 29 European countries.
The European Union plans to launch the Entry/Exit System (EES) in November 2024, though the UK Government notes that the exact date is yet to be confirmed.
EES is a new digital border control system that will affect British nationals traveling to the Schengen area. UK passport holders will be required to register their biometric details, such as fingerprints or a photo, upon arrival.
This registration will replace the current process of manually stamping passports when entering the EU and will apply to 29 countries: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.
How EES Will Affect Travel to Schengen Area Countries
When EES comes into effect, travelers will need to create a digital record upon their first entry to the Schengen area at a port or airport. Biometric information, including fingerprints and a photo, will be collected at designated booths. No prior registration will be needed before traveling.
According to the UK Government, “If you are flying to a Schengen area country, you may experience longer queues upon arrival. At ports and international stations, such as Dover, Eurotunnel, and St Pancras, there may also be increased wait times as EES registration is processed before passengers leave the UK. It’s recommended that travelers check with their operator to see if the system will impact their journey.”
The digital record created will be valid for three years. If travelers re-enter the Schengen area within that period, they will only need to provide a fingerprint or photo at the border for entry and exit.
Why Is the EU Introducing EES?
The UK Government explains that “EES is intended to enhance border security within the EU and neighboring countries, as well as reduce illegal migration within the Schengen area. By automating border control checks, the EU aims to prevent visitors from overstaying.”
EES is part of a broader EU effort to strengthen its borders. In 2025, the EU will introduce the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS).
Once ETIAS is in place, UK passport holders will need to apply for authorization before entering Schengen area countries. This process will involve providing personal information, trip details, and paying a €7 fee. The EU has already shared additional information on ETIAS, including the requirements for different nationalities, on its official Travel Europe website.
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