Travellers heading from the UK into Europe will soon notice major changes at border checkpoints as the EU’s new Entry/Exit System (EES) begins rolling out this autumn. The scheme, delayed several times, will replace manual passport stamping with a digital record of when non-EU citizens enter and leave the Schengen Area. Covering 29 countries, including popular destinations such as Spain, France, Italy and Greece, the system is designed to improve security while eventually making border crossings quicker.
The launch date is set for 12 October, with a phased introduction to reduce disruption. At Dover, coach passengers will be the first to register, followed later by car and ferry travellers. Eurostar will bring in EES gradually, starting with a small number of business passengers before expanding further, while Eurotunnel will also begin staging its rollout on the same day. By April 2026, all Schengen borders are expected to be using the system.
Passengers will be required to register the first time they use EES, providing biometric data such as fingerprints and a photograph along with passport scans. This will usually be done at automated kiosks, though border officers may be involved at certain points. Children under 12 will not have to give fingerprints, and the registration will remain valid for three years.
Concerns have been raised about potential long queues, particularly at Dover, but transport operators insist preparations are in place. Eurostar and Eurotunnel have already installed hundreds of kiosks, and the system will be introduced gradually to prevent major delays. A linked visa-waiver programme, ETIAS, is expected to follow in 2026, requiring an online application and fee before travel.
