France & Germany Booming Schengen Border Changes with EES and ETIAS, Redefining How Travelers Experience Europe’s New Era of Security, Mobility, and Tourism in 2025

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Published on
August 25, 2025

New Entry-Exit System on UK Travelers

Starting in 2025, Europe’s new border control measures will change the way travelers experience entry and exit procedures in the Schengen Area. The Entry-Exit System (EES) and the European Travel Information and Authorization System (Etias) will reshape travel, with a focus on biometric data, security enhancements, and authorization requirements. These changes will impact how travelers enter and exit Europe, especially as new rules roll out through 2026. As the systems are gradually introduced, travelers will face a more structured and secure travel environment. What should you expect from these changes, and how will they affect your future travel plans?

The EES aims to monitor the entry and exit of travelers, particularly focusing on non-EU nationals, such as UK citizens, by tracking their stay durations. This development is in response to the need for better border security and adherence to travel limitations, especially the 90-day stay rule within a 180-day period. Additionally, Etias, the European Travel Information and Authorization System, will be introduced in late 2026, which will further affect the travel procedures of UK citizens.

Phased Rollout of the Entry-Exit System

The EES will be launched in phases, starting in October 2025. Initially, only a small group of UK travelers will experience these new changes as the system is gradually implemented. At the start, biometric checks will only be available at a limited number of Schengen border posts, requiring travelers to submit biometric data such as fingerprints and facial recognition scans. As this system is rolled out, the impact on travelers will be minimal, but by December 2025, the number of Schengen border crossings using this system will increase significantly. However, during this period, manual passport stamps will still be in use.

By January 2026, half of the Schengen Area’s border posts will be using the biometric identification system, marking a substantial shift. Finally, by April 2026, biometric identification will completely replace the manual passport stamping process, making the EES fully operational. This will change the way travelers cross borders, placing a significant emphasis on efficiency and security.

Understanding the EES and Its Impact on Travelers

The Entry-Exit System (EES) is designed to track when travelers enter and leave the Schengen Area. For non-EU nationals, particularly UK citizens, this system will ensure that travelers adhere to the 90-day limit within a 180-day period. Border authorities will be able to monitor travelers more effectively, which will also help in combating identity fraud and criminal activity.

In the beginning, travelers might not immediately undergo biometric checks, especially as the system is being phased in. However, they should be prepared for longer waiting times at border crossings due to the dual process of submitting both biometric data and having their passport manually stamped. Once travelers are registered in the system, future entries will be faster, as they will only need to provide facial recognition data, which should significantly reduce waiting times.

Introduction of Etias and Its Role in Border Control

Alongside the EES, another critical development is the European Travel Information and Authorization System (Etias). Set to launch in late 2026, this system will require travelers, including UK nationals, to apply for an online travel permit before entering the Schengen Area. The permit will cost €20 and will be valid for up to three years. Although initially optional, it is set to become mandatory for travelers from countries outside the EU, such as UK citizens, in April 2027.

The Etias is similar to the US ESTA system, though it remains valid for a longer period. Travelers aged under 18 and over 70 will be exempt from the fee, while other travelers will need to ensure they apply well in advance of their trip. Even if travelers miss the Etias deadline during the grace period, they may be denied boarding if they do not have the necessary authorization. This makes it important to apply early to avoid travel disruptions.

What Travelers Can Expect in the Coming Years

Travelers should be aware of several key changes in the coming years, particularly those heading to the Schengen Area:

• October 2025: Biometric data, including fingerprints and facial recognition scans, will be collected at most Schengen border posts.
• Longer wait times can be expected as travelers go through both the biometric checks and the traditional passport stamping process.
• By October 2026, travelers will need to apply for the Etias before entering the Schengen Area.
• Starting in April 2027, the Etias will become mandatory for all UK travelers heading to Schengen countries.

Impact on the Global Travel Industry

The Entry-Exit System (EES) and Etias will have far-reaching effects on the global travel industry. While the changes will primarily affect UK travelers, the ripple effects will be felt worldwide. Airports, airlines, and border control agencies will all have to adapt to the new procedures, requiring the installation of biometric systems and modifications to check-in processes. This might lead to longer delays at check-ins and border crossings, as both biometric data and Etias approval will need to be checked.

Airlines will need to verify Etias approvals for passengers before they board flights to Schengen countries, which could create delays and disruptions at the airport check-in counters. The added bureaucratic layers might also make the overall travel experience more structured but less efficient. Travelers will need to be extra diligent about their documentation, ensuring that they apply for the Etias in advance and that their biometric data is recorded correctly. This could also lead to longer queues and wait times at airports and border crossings, making some travelers hesitant to visit the Schengen Area.

For the tourism industry, this may lead to fluctuations in visitor numbers. Some tourists might opt to visit destinations outside the Schengen Area to avoid the added complexity and delays. This shift could significantly affect tourism flows, especially in popular European destinations.

Important Dates to Remember for Travelers

Travelers heading to the Schengen Area should keep track of the following key dates and milestones as the EES and Etias systems are phased in:

• 12 October 2025: The EES begins its limited rollout at select border crossings.
• 11 December 2025: The number of Schengen border crossings with biometric checks will increase significantly.
• January 2026: 50% of Schengen border posts will begin using biometric data to track travelers.
• 9 April 2026: Full implementation of the EES, with biometric identification fully replacing manual passport stamps at all border crossings.
• 9 October 2026: Etias will be launched for most travelers entering the Schengen Area.
• April 2027: The Etias will become mandatory for all UK nationals traveling to Schengen countries.

Preparing for the New Border Control Landscape

The Entry-Exit System (EES) and European Travel Information and Authorization System (Etias) will drastically reshape how UK travelers experience border control procedures in Europe. These systems are designed to enhance security, reduce the risk of identity fraud, and ensure that travelers adhere to the 90-day stay rule. However, they may also cause delays and disrupt the flow of tourism, particularly as biometric checks and document verification processes are introduced.

To avoid unnecessary complications, travelers should prepare for these changes well in advance. Ensuring that biometric data is recorded accurately and that the Etias is applied for early will be key in navigating the evolving border procedures. While these changes may add layers of bureaucracy, they are ultimately intended to make travel more secure and streamlined.

As these systems are rolled out, it is crucial for the global travel industry to adapt swiftly. Airlines, airports, and border control agencies will need to adjust to the new systems, which may affect tourism patterns and the overall travel experience. The Schengen Area will undoubtedly see a shift in visitor numbers as some travelers opt for less complex destinations. However, for those committed to visiting Europe, understanding these changes and preparing for them will be essential for a smooth and stress-free travel experience.