Thursday, July 31, 2025
As of 12 October 2025, visitors from the UK en route to Schengen countries including Spain, Greece, Italy, will be subjected to a series of new entry and exit requirements under the European Union’s Entry/Exit System (EES). In an effort to simplify border controls, increase security and avoid irregular migration.
The start date for the EES, which will affect non-EU citizens, including Britons, has also been announced by the European Commission this week. The system will digitize the border control, in a break with the previous tradition of stamping the passport.
What is the New Entry/Exit System?
The EES is an advanced system that will collect biometric data, such as fingerprints and facial images, from non-EU travelers entering and exiting Schengen Area countries for short stays. The system is designed to improve the management of external borders, offering better data for tracking border crossings and identifying overstayers, while also combating identity fraud.
Key Changes for UK Travelers
Starting October 2025, UK nationals traveling to any of the 29 Schengen zone countries, including popular destinations like Spain, Italy, and Greece, will need to provide additional biometric information at the border. The new process will involve:
Biometric Data Collection: Travelers may be asked to provide their fingerprints and have their photo taken upon entering and exiting the Schengen zone.Pre-Departure Registration: UK travelers departing for these countries through locations like the Port of Dover, Eurotunnel, or St Pancras International will have biometric data collected before leaving the UK.Additional Time at the Border: While the EES is designed to improve border security, travelers should expect slightly longer wait times as they go through biometric checks. Passengers may experience a few extra minutes during the process.Gradual Rollout of the EES
The European Commission explained that the EES will not be introduced all at once but will instead be rolled out gradually across the Schengen zone over a period of six months. This phased introduction will help border authorities, airlines, and travelers adjust to the new procedures. The goal is to ensure smoother transitions at borders while enhancing overall security and efficiency.
The Purpose of the EES
The new system is part of the EU’s broader efforts to modernize border control procedures. The EES will digitize the recording of entries and exits, replacing manual passport stamping. It is also expected to bring several benefits, including:
Improved Border Management: By automating data collection, the system will help authorities track travelers more efficiently and detect potential overstayers.Enhanced Security: The collection of biometric data will make it harder for individuals to fraudulently cross borders using false identities or travel documents.Smoother Travel: Although the EES may add a few extra minutes to border processing times, the system aims to reduce overall delays by allowing for automated checks and less manual intervention.
According to an EU spokesperson, the EES will help prevent irregular migration by ensuring that individuals who overstay their permitted time in the Schengen Area are more easily identified. It will also protect the safety and security of EU citizens by providing accurate and reliable data on border movements.
Impact on Passengers
While the system is expected to improve security, travelers should be aware of the changes and plan accordingly. The implementation of biometric data collection could add some time to the entry and exit process, particularly at busy border checkpoints. Officials have advised travelers to anticipate potential delays and arrive at the airport or border crossings earlier than usual.
As the EES will collect biometric data at both entry and exit points, it is important for travelers to ensure their data is correctly recorded during both processes to avoid complications upon leaving the Schengen zone.
How the EES Will Be Rolled Out
Over the next few months, the European Union will gradually integrate the EES across the 29 Schengen countries. During the initial rollout, border authorities and transport sectors will work together to ensure the smooth implementation of the system, and passengers will be kept informed of any changes.
Travelers are advised to check the updated guidelines on official government websites, such as the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) website, for the most up-to-date information on the new entry requirements.
How to Prepare for the Changes
To prepare for the new entry and exit system, UK travelers should:
Ensure Their Travel Documents Are Updated: Check that your passport and other travel documents are valid and meet the new requirements. If you haven’t updated your passport recently, consider renewing it ahead of time.Arrive Early at Border Crossings: Since biometric data collection could add extra time to the border process, it is wise to arrive earlier than usual at airports or other border entry points.Stay Informed: Keep an eye on government updates regarding the new procedures, especially if you’re traveling to countries like Spain, Greece, or Italy. Regularly check the FCDO travel pages for any updates or changes to entry requirements.
By staying informed and prepared, travelers can minimize disruptions and ensure a smooth journey as the new system is phased in across Europe.
Conclusion
The Entry/Exit System (EES) marks a new era in border management of the Schengen Area. UK holidaymakers traveling to Spain, Greece and Italy must become accustomed to the new rules from October 2025. Although the alterations are the result of security improvements and come in place to facilitate traffic, visitors can anticipate some delay as well as prepare for that.
