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London, September 2025 – British travellers heading to the Schengen Area will soon face new border requirements as the European Union introduces its long-awaited Entry/Exit System (EES) on 12 October 2025.
Biometric Registration for UK Passport Holders
Under the new rules, UK citizens entering Schengen countries for short stays will be required to provide biometric details, including fingerprints and a facial photo, upon arrival. This process will create a digital record that replaces the current manual passport stamping system.
Travellers do not need to take any action before departure, and there is no cost for EES registration. However, passengers should expect slightly longer waiting times at ports and airports as the system is rolled out, with dedicated booths set up for biometric checks.
Impact at Borders and Key Travel Hubs
EES checks will apply across all 29 Schengen states, including popular destinations such as France, Spain, Italy, and Germany. Ireland and Cyprus are excluded as they are not part of the Schengen Area.
For travellers entering via Dover, Eurotunnel at Folkestone, or St Pancras International, biometric checks will be completed before leaving the UK. On return, passengers may also need to confirm their identity through either fingerprint or photo scans when exiting the Schengen zone.
Once registered, a digital EES record will remain valid for three years, meaning repeat travellers will only need to reconfirm a fingerprint or photo at entry and exit points.
Travel Limits Still Apply
The new system does not change the existing 90 days in 180 days rule for short stays. UK visitors must ensure they do not exceed their permitted time in Schengen countries. Overstaying can lead to penalties or entry bans imposed by individual member states.
Purpose of the New System
The EU says EES will improve border management by automating entry checks, reducing overstays, and strengthening overall security. It is part of a wider strategy that also includes the upcoming European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), set to launch in 2026. ETIAS will require UK travellers to apply online for pre-authorisation before entering Schengen countries, providing personal details and paying a €20 fee.
For now, no action is required from UK travellers until the system goes live in October 2025.
Source
European Commission – Entry/Exit System (EES)
