Home » Greece » Greece Travel News » France, Spain, Italy, Germany, and Greece Are Part of Twenty Nine European Nations Requiring Biometric Checks. Global Visitors, Do You Know What to Expect?

Published on
October 5, 2025

It has been noted that UK travellers heading to Europe are facing a transformative shift in border procedures as the European Union launches the Entry/Exit System (EES). Analysts indicate that this digital system will replace traditional passport stamping and will require travellers to submit biometric information, including fingerprints and a photograph, whenever they enter or exit the Schengen Zone. Experts explain that these records will be retained for up to three years, aiming to enhance border security while streamlining processing across European ports and airports. Observers caution that despite the system’s benefits for security and efficiency, travellers should anticipate longer queues at airports, ferry terminals, and train stations, particularly during peak travel seasons. Travel and tourism operations are reportedly updating staffing and operational procedures to accommodate these changes. Industry specialists highlight that understanding these new procedures is crucial for UK travellers to avoid disruption. Furthermore, the EES is part of the EU’s broader strategy to digitize borders, which is expected to have far-reaching effects on global travel patterns.

Global Travel Implications

Reports suggest that the implementation of the EES could reshape international travel behaviors. The requirement to submit biometric data may encourage visitors to plan trips more strategically, allowing extra time for potential delays. Analysts point out that airlines, ferry services, and train operators may need to adjust timetables, enhance staffing, and manage passenger flow to prevent congestion at borders. Experts also note that travel insurance policies and visa compliance could be indirectly affected, as stricter border security reduces unauthorized stays. Observers highlight that the EES forms part of a larger digitization initiative, which will include the launch of the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), expected in 2026. Industry specialists emphasize that travellers and service providers must adapt to these changes, which are expected to influence peak travel periods, regional visitor flows, and tourism planning worldwide.

Looking Ahead: ETIAS Launch in 2026

It has been projected that the next stage of European border modernization will be the rollout of ETIAS, which will require UK citizens to apply for travel authorization, provide detailed personal and trip information, and pay a €20 fee prior to entering the Schengen Zone. Analysts explain that ETIAS will complement the EES by further streamlining border procedures, but will also require careful pre-travel preparation. Observers note that this will affect millions of travellers, influencing tourism scheduling and operational planning across Europe. Industry experts suggest that travellers incorporate ETIAS registration into their itineraries to avoid delays and ensure compliance. Tourism analysts underscore that ETIAS, in conjunction with the EES, represents a shift toward structured, digital, and secure travel management, fundamentally changing how visitors approach European journeys.

Purpose and Benefits of the EES

Reports indicate that the EES is designed to enhance border security, simplify passport controls, and reduce illegal overstays in the Schengen Zone. Analysts note that digital entry and exit records allow authorities to monitor movement efficiently, providing a safer and more reliable travel experience. Experts emphasize that the system is a critical component of the EU’s broader border modernization efforts, leveraging technology to facilitate traveller processing while supporting law enforcement objectives. Observers underline that these measures are not only for administrative efficiency but also aim to create safer tourism environments, benefiting millions of visitors and reinforcing the integrity of European borders.

Participating Schengen Countries

Industry reports highlight that the EES applies to 29 countries in the Schengen Zone, including France, Spain, Italy, Germany, and Greece. Analysts note that Ireland and Cyprus are excluded from the system. Experts stress that UK travellers visiting participating countries must complete EES registration to avoid complications. Tourism analysts advise that understanding which countries are included is essential for effective itinerary planning. Observers also note that these exclusions may affect route planning, travel flexibility, and tourism choices, especially for visitors seeking seamless movement across multiple destinations.

Cruises and Exemptions

Travel specialists report that cruise passengers departing and returning outside the Schengen Zone, including departures from UK ports, are generally exempt from EES checks, even for day trips within Schengen countries. Analysts indicate, however, that travellers disembarking in the Schengen Zone and continuing independently will need to register with the EES. Experts note that this ensures accurate border records and allows authorities to maintain oversight of all visitors moving within the Schengen area. Observers also suggest that cruise operators and port authorities will need to coordinate closely with border management systems to implement these processes efficiently.

How and Where EES Checks Will Occur

Industry reports indicate that EES registration procedures differ depending on the mode of transport:

  • By Air: Registration is completed upon arrival at any Schengen airport.
  • By Eurostar (St Pancras International): Travellers use self-service kiosks at three designated locations before passing through ticket gates.
  • By Eurotunnel (Folkestone): Passengers complete pre-registration at dedicated kiosks before continuing their journey.
  • By Ferry (Port of Dover): Kiosks or tablet-assisted registration will be available at Western Docks prior to departure.
  • Other UK Ports: Registration occurs upon arrival in the destination Schengen country.

Observers note that the UK government has allocated £3.5 million each to upgrade infrastructure at Eurostar, Eurotunnel, and the Port of Dover. Analysts stress that these upgrades are critical to minimizing disruption, and that travel operators must adjust workflows and staffing proactively to maintain efficiency during the transition.

Anticipated Delays and Travel Implications

Observers warn that travellers may experience longer waiting times at airports, ferry ports, and Eurostar or Eurotunnel terminals due to the EES process. Analysts note that these delays could impact flight schedules, ferry departures, and train connections, making it necessary for travellers to plan ahead and allow additional time. Tourism experts suggest that operators may need to reallocate resources, adjust staffing, and revise check-in procedures to manage congestion effectively. Experts also emphasize that these procedural changes could influence broader travel patterns, including peak travel periods and regional tourism flows, potentially reshaping how demand is distributed across Europe.

Schengen Area Entry Requirements for UK Citizens

Reports highlight that UK passport holders visiting the Schengen Zone for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period must complete EES registration upon arrival. Observers note that no pre-travel registration is required and that the process is free of charge. During the initial registration, travellers provide biometric data at self-service kiosks or with the assistance of border officials. Analysts note that once created, the digital record remains valid for three years, although subsequent visits may require updated fingerprints or a new photograph at entry and exit points.

Key points summarised include:

  • Registration occurs upon arrival in the Schengen Zone.
  • Biometric data includes fingerprints and a photo.
  • Records remain valid for three years, with potential updates required.

Industry Adjustments and Operational Considerations

Reports indicate that the EES rollout will necessitate operational adjustments across the travel and tourism sectors. Observers suggest that airlines, ferry services, and train operators may need to revise timetables, enhance check-in procedures, and increase staffing to manage additional processing time. Industry specialists stress that clear communication with travellers about potential delays and procedural requirements will be essential. Analysts also note that travel agencies and tour operators may need to update guidance to clients, ensuring they understand both EES and ETIAS requirements before departure.

Strategic Implications for Tourism

Experts suggest that the EES system may influence tourism trends across Europe. Observers note that the requirement for biometric checks and pre-travel registration could encourage travellers to plan trips more deliberately, potentially affecting peak travel seasons, regional demand, and distribution of visitors across destinations. Analysts highlight that enhanced border security may improve traveller confidence while discouraging overstays or unauthorized travel. Tourism specialists indicate that these changes could indirectly influence travel insurance and visa compliance, making pre-trip planning more critical than ever.

Key Recommendations for UK Travellers

Industry experts advise UK visitors to take the following steps to navigate the EES system effectively:

  • Allocate extra time for arrival in the Schengen Zone.
  • Submit biometric data (fingerprints and photo) during registration.
  • Understand cruise exemptions versus independent travel rules.
  • Stay informed about ETIAS requirements launching in 2026.
  • Prepare for operational adjustments at airports, ferry ports, and train terminals.

Preparing for a Digitally Advanced Border System

Analysts conclude that the EES represents a major step toward a safer, more efficient, and digitally advanced border system. Observers suggest that it will allow authorities to monitor traveller movement, prevent illegal overstays, and improve overall border security. At the same time, experts note that the system will reshape travel experiences, requiring careful planning, awareness, and compliance from UK travellers. Analysts predict that with the continued adoption of digital border management, alongside the future rollout of ETIAS, these measures will have lasting impacts on global tourism trends, fundamentally influencing how people move across the Schengen Zone for years to come.