The European Commission has confirmed the launch date of its new Entry/Exit System (EES)
Veronique Hawksworth and Hannah Ahmed
18:39, 05 Aug 2025
Non-EU nationals visiting any of the 29 countries in the Schengen area for short stays may experience a slightly different entry and exit process as the system takes effect(Image: Matt Cardy/Getty Images)
UK holidaymakers eyeing getaways to Spain, Greece and Italy, along with other nations in the Schengen zone, are bracing for new entry requirements in the coming months.
The European Commission confirmed on July 30 the kick-off date for its new Entry/Exit System (EES), following months of speculation about when it would come into play.
From October 12, 2025, non-EU nationals visiting any of the 29 countries in the Schengen area for short stays may experience a slightly different entry and exit process as the system takes effect. The Foreign Office has begun issuing updates for the countries impacted by this change, with several FCDO travel pages having been updated, reports Birmingham Live.
READ MORE: Spain travel warning for Ryanair passengers as strikes set to hit 12 airportsREAD MORE: Ryanair charges customer £75 for cabin bag but then something amazing happens
In the most recent update on the Spain, Greece and Italy pages, among others, the department announced: “New Schengen entry requirements. From 12 October 2025, the European Union’s (EU) new Entry/Exit System (EES) will begin. When travelling into and out of the Schengen area, for short stays, you may need to:
- have you fingerprints and your photo taken
- answer the Schengen Border Code questions”
The guidance further states: “If you enter the Schengen area through the Port of Dover, Eurotunnel at Folkestone or St Pancras International, this information will be taken at the border, before you leave the UK. You may also need to provide either your fingerprint or photo when you leave the Schengen area.
“EES may take each passenger a few extra minutes to complete so be prepared to wait longer than usual at the border once the system starts.”
The European Commission has issued a statement indicating that the implementation of the new system will not be instantaneous but will unfold progressively over the next six months, reports MyLondon.
An EU spokesperson outlined the aims of the initiative, stating: “The EES is an advanced technological system that will digitally record the entries and exits of non-EU nationals travelling to 29 European countries, including Schengen Associated ones, for short stays. It will capture biometric data, such as fingerprints, facial image, and other travel information, gradually replacing the current system of passport stamping.”
Further details were provided in the statement: “The EES will modernise and improve the management of EU external borders.
“It will provide reliable data on border crossings, systematically detect overstayers as well as cases of document and identity fraud. The EES will thus contribute to preventing irregular migration and protecting the security of European citizens.
“Additionally, with the increased use of automated border checks, travelling will become smoother and safer for all. The new system meets the highest standards of data and privacy protection, ensuring that travellers’ personal data remain protected and secure.”
Officials anticipate that following a six-month transition period, every Schengen nation will have fully integrated the system. The gradual implementation is intended to aid border officials, the transport sector, and travellers in adapting to the new procedures step by step, reports Lincolnshire Live.
Join our Belfast Live breaking news service on WhatsApp
Click this link or scan the QR code to receive breaking news and top stories from Belfast Live. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.
For all the latest news, visit the Belfast Live homepage here and sign up to our daily newsletter here.