Home » VISA AND PASSPORT NEWS » Switzerland Joins UK, Germany, Netherlands, France, Austria, Italy, Greece and More as Impacted by New EU Travel Rules: What You Need to Know About the Entry/Exit System Starting October 12, 2025

Published on
September 24, 2025

From October 12, 2025, UK travelers heading to Schengen area countries will experience major changes at border crossings. The EU’s new Entry/Exit System (EES) will require travelers to provide biometric data—such as fingerprints and photographs—at the border. This new system is designed to enhance border security and streamline entry and exit for non-EU nationals. It will have a significant impact on how UK passport holders travel to Europe, especially in terms of processing times and new procedures.

Although the introduction of the EES will improve security and efficiency in the long run, travelers are advised to prepare for some initial delays, particularly at high-traffic airports and terminals.

What Is the Entry/Exit System (EES)?

The Entry/Exit System is part of the EU’s efforts to modernize border controls and strengthen its security measures for non-EU citizens. Under this system, travelers will need to scan their passport, provide a photograph, and scan their fingerprints when entering or leaving the Schengen zone. These records will be stored in the EU’s central database, and the process will help authorities track the movement of people more effectively across the EU’s external borders.

The EES will be rolled out gradually across the Schengen zone, starting with certain countries and ports before expanding to all participating countries by April 2026. Initially, passengers will experience the changes at major airports and Eurostar terminals.

How Will the EES Impact UK Travelers?

For UK travelers planning to visit any of the Schengen zone countries (including Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein), the EES system will require biometric data collection the first time they travel after October 12, 2025. Here’s a breakdown of the process:

Initial Entry Process

  • Passport Scan: On arrival at the border, travelers will need to scan their passport at the designated EES kiosk.
  • Biometric Data Collection: Travelers will be asked to provide fingerprints and a photograph for the system. This data will be stored for three years, meaning that travelers won’t need to provide this information again during subsequent trips to the Schengen zone, unless their passport expires.
  • Family Exemption: Children under 12 will not need to provide fingerprints, though they will still have their photograph taken as part of the registration.

Subsequent Entries

For future trips within the Schengen zone, travelers will only need to scan their passport and either scan their fingerprints or provide their photo. This streamlined process will make future travel through the EES system much quicker.

Countries Affected by the EES

The EES applies to all Schengen zone countries, including:

  • Austria
  • Belgium
  • Czech Republic
  • Denmark
  • Finland
  • France
  • Germany
  • Greece
  • Italy
  • Netherlands
  • Norway
  • Portugal
  • Spain
  • Sweden
  • Switzerland

However, travelers to Ireland and Cyprus will not be affected by the EES as they are not part of the Schengen area. These countries will continue to use the previous border control systems.

How Will the EES Affect Travel to the EU?Longer Wait Times at First

One of the main concerns with the new system is the possibility of longer waiting times at borders as travelers get used to the new procedures. Although officials have assured that the process will be quick, it’s recommended that travelers arrive early to allow extra time for the biometric checks.

Port of Dover, Eurotunnel, and Eurostar Travelers

For those traveling via the Port of Dover, Eurotunnel, or Eurostar, the EES system will be implemented before departure from the UK. Passengers will undergo biometric checks at the border before they cross into the EU. This change is set to improve security but may also result in slightly longer processing times at these departure points.

Travel Tips for UK Travelers

To ensure a smooth experience when the EES system launches, UK travelers should take note of the following tips:

  1. Plan for Delays: While the system is designed to be efficient, there may be initial delays as airports and terminals adjust to the new procedures. Arriving earlier than usual at the airport will help minimize stress.
  2. Check Passport Validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure from the Schengen zone. If it’s nearing expiration, renew it before your trip.
  3. Children Exemptions: If you’re traveling with children under 12, remember they won’t need to provide fingerprints, but their photograph will still be taken.
  4. Stay Informed: Keep an eye on airport and immigration updates as the system rolls out. Some airports may still stamp passports until the system is fully operational by April 2026.
  5. Allow Extra Time at Border Points: While the system will eventually speed up border crossing, give yourself extra time, especially during busy travel periods like holidays or peak summer months.

Key Points to Remember:

  • EES system launches on October 12, 2025, for UK travelers entering the Schengen area.
  • The new system requires biometric data (photo and fingerprints) at border points.
  • Children under 12 will not be required to provide fingerprints.
  • Ireland and Cyprus will not implement the EES system.
  • Expect initial delays as travelers adjust to the new system.
  • The new process will eventually replace passport stamping across the Schengen zone by April 2026.

Final Thoughts

The EES system is a significant shift in how UK travelers will interact with European borders. While the transition may lead to some inconvenience at first, it will ultimately enhance border security and efficiency. For those planning trips to Europe, it’s essential to be prepared for these changes, ensuring that your passport and biometric data are correctly registered when you first travel after October 12, 2025. With a little preparation, travelers can navigate the new system with ease and enjoy a smoother journey through the Schengen zone in the years to come.