Everything you need to know about EES and ETIAS

The carefree days of breezing into Europe with just your passport are almost over. The EU’s Entry/Exit System (EES) begins rolling out from 12 October 2025, requiring travellers to provide biometric data when entering the Schengen area.

The system, which will replace passport stamps, will roll out gradually over the next 180 days and is expected to be fully operational by next April. The ETIAS visa waiver scheme will follow.

From the countries the EES covers to changes at border control, here's everything you need to know about the new system.

What is the EES?

The Entry/Exit System is the EU’s new digital border system that will register short-stay, non-EU nationals arriving in the Schengen area. It will be implemented at all external Schengen borders, including international airports, train stations, sea ports and road crossings.

According to the FCDO, the EES is being introduced to: “improve border security within the EU and its neighbouring countries, and reduce illegal migration in the Schengen area.”

The 29 Schengen countries are: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland.

When will the EES start?

After multiple delays, the EES will roll out from Sunday, 12 October 2025. According to The Independent, at least 10% of frontier crossings will implement the system from this time. Passports will continue to be stamped until 9 April 2026.

The rollout should be complete by 10 April 2026.

What will happen at border control with EES?

On your first visit to a Schengen country after the system goes live, you’ll need to provide a facial biometric, your fingerprints and your passport. For most travellers, this will be completed via EES kiosks. Children under 12 will not need to provide their fingerprints.

This data will be stored digitally for three years. For future visits within that time, only one form of biometric verification should be required.

Will this mean delays at the border?

Possibly. Both EU members and British MPs anticipate some border delays during the rollout period while travellers complete the registration process for the first time.

However, in the early stages, local officials will have some discretion over enforcement if queues build up. When the rollout is complete, the EU says that the EES will ultimately shorten wait times.

“With EES, travellers will spend less time at the border thanks to faster checks, self-service options, and the possibility to give their information in advance,” the EU’s official Travel Europe site states.

What about ETIAS?

ETIAS is an upcoming electronic travel authorisation (like those used by the US, Canada and Australia). It will allow certain nationals – including UK passport holders – to visit the Schengen area for up to 90 days within any 180-day period without the need to apply for a visa.

When does ETIAS come into effect?

ETIAS depends on the EES being fully operational, so it’s expected to launch in the final quarter of 2026. The EU has stated that travellers will be given several months’ notice before it goes live.

How much will ETIAS cost?

When ETIAS was announced, the fee was set at €7 (£6). However, in July 2025, the EU confirmed the fee would be increased to €20 (£17.50) to cover operational costs and reflect the rise in inflation.

The fee will apply to all travellers aged 18 to 70. It's free for anyone outside this age range and for family members of EU citizens.

How often will I need to renew my ETIAS?

Once you've got your ETIAS, you're set for three years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. This means you won’t need to reapply each time, as long as each stay doesn't exceed 90 days within any 180-day period.

Will children need an ETIAS?

Yes, all travellers, regardless of age, need to have an ETIAS visa waiver. However, for those under 18 or over 70, ETIAS is entirely free.

Which countries are covered by ETIAS?

ETIAS covers all 29 countries in the Schengen area, as well as Cyprus. This encompasses most EU nations, allowing for smooth travel across some of the most popular holiday destinations in Europe.

Will I be able to travel freely between ETIAS countries?

Once you have been granted ETIAS authorisation and have entered the Schengen area, you can travel freely between the ETIAS countries without undergoing additional border checks. However, it's always wise to carry your passport and ETIAS authorisation, as random checks can occur.

What will I need to provide for an ETIAS application?

To complete an ETIAS application, you'll need to provide a range of information, including:

• Personal details (full name, date of birth, and gender)
• Passport details (number, expiration date, and country of issuance)
• Contact information (email and address)
• Details of your first intended stay in the Schengen area
• Background questions related to criminal history, past European travel, and previous travel to conflict areas

What if my passport expires after getting an ETIAS?

Your ETIAS is linked to your current passport – once your passport expires, so does your ETIAS authorisation, regardless of the three-year validity. You'll need to reapply for ETIAS with your new passport. 

Can I use ETIAS for multiple trips to Europe?

Yes, ETIAS is designed for multiple entries into the Schengen area. Once approved, your ETIAS authorisation allows you to enter and exit the Schengen countries as many times as you wish, provided you don't exceed the 90-day limit within any 180-day period.

Is travel insurance required for ETIAS holders?

While ETIAS itself does not mandate travel insurance, it's highly recommended to have comprehensive travel insurance for your trip to Europe.

Some Schengen countries may require proof of travel insurance upon entry, particularly insurance that covers medical expenses and repatriation.

It's best to check the specific entry requirements of the countries you plan to visit and to consider insurance as a safeguard against unforeseen circumstances.