Home » Latest Travel News of UK » Navigate Post-Brexit Travel Changes: Simon Calder’s Expert Question And Answer On New EU Entry-Exit System For UK Tourists Visiting Europe, Here’s What You Need To Know

Published on
September 9, 2025

There is a new modification to travel for UK tourists which is to take effect next month to coincide with the new post Brexit regulations. These rules, along with the new Entry-Exit System (EES) for the European Union, suggests a transformation in the way UK passport holders travel to the EU and Schengen countries in the form of submitting fingerprints and facial recognition. The changes to the UK-EU relations would be even sharper because of the new classification: Britain is a ‘third’ country.’

Traversing Correspondent for The Independent, Simon Calder, is presenting a special opportunity for vacationers to take a more in-depth glance at the new regulations during a devoted Q&A segment focusing on the new policies.

What Is the EU Entry-Exit System and How Does It Impact Travelers?

Beginning 12 October 2025, the EU will begin rolling out the Entry-Exit System (EES), which will be mandatory for all UK visitors. This new system is designed to track the arrival and departure of non-EU nationals, ensuring compliance with visa and travel requirements. Under the new rules, British travelers will be required to provide biometric data, such as fingerprints and facial recognition, upon entry to any country in the Schengen Area.

This change is a significant step in the European Union’s post-Brexit security measures, which were introduced to safeguard borders and streamline immigration processes. While the system will allow for a quicker and more efficient entry process in the future, it also presents a new layer of bureaucracy and red tape for UK travelers.

What You Need to Know About the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS)

In addition to the Entry-Exit System, the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) will be implemented in the near future. This online pre-approval system is similar to the U.S. ESTA, requiring travelers to submit their details before arriving in the EU.

The ETIAS is expected to function as a visa waiver program for short stays (up to 90 days) for UK tourists and other third-country nationals. The application process will involve submitting basic personal information, including passport details, travel history, and background checks. While the ETIAS will not grant a visa, it will serve as a pre-approval for travel, and travelers must apply for this authorization before departing for Europe.

For British tourists, the combination of the EES and ETIAS systems will make EU travel more complicated. While it’s aimed at enhancing border security and preventing illegal immigration, it will also require more time for travelers to plan their trips.

Simon Calder’s Exclusive Q&A: Clearing the Confusion

Simon Calder, with years of experience as a travel correspondent and expert in post-Brexit travel matters, will lead a live “Ask Me Anything” session to help clear up the confusion surrounding the new EU entry-exit rules.

Date: Wednesday, 10 September 2025, at 11am BST
The Q&A session offers travelers the chance to submit their burning questions directly to Simon Calder, who is ideally placed to demystify the complexities of the new systems and answer queries on how UK nationals can prepare for these changes.

Whether you’re wondering about how long the biometric data process will take, what documents you need to prepare, or how to navigate the application process for the ETIAS, Simon will provide expert insight and advice.

How Will These Changes Affect British Tourists?

The introduction of the EES and ETIAS systems will impact various aspects of travel for British tourists:

1. Increased Wait Times and Administrative Hurdles

With biometric data collection, travelers should expect longer queues at airports and border crossings. This added layer of security could mean additional time spent on entering the EU. While the process is designed to be streamlined in the long run, travelers should factor in extra time to avoid missing flights or connections.

2. New Travel Planning Considerations

The need for prior ETIAS approval before departure will require more advanced planning. Tourists will no longer be able to make last-minute trips to the EU without first securing travel authorization. Additionally, travelers must be prepared for the possibility of refusal if their background checks flag any issues. This new system adds a layer of uncertainty, especially for spontaneous travelers.

3. Impact on Short-Stay Tourism

UK tourists who regularly travel to Europe for short stays will be especially affected by these changes. The need to apply for an ETIAS before each trip, along with the additional biometric data checks, could deter some travelers. For those visiting multiple countries within the Schengen Area, the process may feel cumbersome.

4. Data Privacy Concerns

The biometric data collection required for both EES and ETIAS systems raises questions around privacy and data security. While the EU insists the data will be used solely for border control purposes, the increased collection of personal information could raise concerns for some travelers about how their data is stored and accessed.

What Should Travelers Do Now to Prepare?

As the implementation of the EES and ETIAS systems approaches, British travelers can take steps to prepare and ensure a smooth journey to the EU:

1. Check Passport Validity

Your passport must meet the EU’s entry requirements, including being valid for at least three months beyond the planned date of departure. Ensure that you renew your passport well in advance to avoid complications.

2. Apply for ETIAS Early

The ETIAS application process will be online, and travelers are advised to apply at least a few weeks before their planned trip. Be sure to check the official ETIAS website for details on how to submit your application and for any updates on the system’s launch.

3. Allow Extra Time at Border Crossings

Travelers should anticipate longer wait times at EU border control points. It’s advisable to arrive at airports and other border entry points earlier than usual to allow time for biometric checks.

4. Stay Informed

Keep up-to-date with official travel advisories and information from reputable sources such as Simon Calder and other travel experts. Stay informed on the latest developments and ensure you understand the requirements for traveling to the EU.

Navigating Post-Brexit Travel with Expert Guidance

The changes brought on by the EU’s new Entry-Exit System and the ETIAS application will indelibly mark how British travelers undertake travel to Europe. Although the changes are largely focused on enhancing security and controlling the borders, they have increased the complexity of travel.

To feel confident and travel worry-free, attend the exclusive Q&A with Simon Calder, who will share tips on tailoring to your interests the complex changes to Brexit travel. Traveling to the EU, whether on a long vacation or a little business trip, has its benefits—especially if you want to save time with the new regulations.