Here’s everything you need to know about the new EU Entry/Exit System (EES)...
Soon, The European Union (EU) will be introducing a new border immigration system, the ‘Entry/Exit System’ (EES), that will affect UK and all other non-EU passport holders when travelling to the following EU countries:
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
Switzerland
What is EES?
The EU Entry/Exit System (EES) is a system that registers all UK and other non-EU travellers each time they enter or exit the EU bloc. Although the EU is yet to confirm a specific date, the system is expected to be activated in November 2024.
The system will replace the current manual stamping of passports on arrival, as your entry and exit dates will instead be logged electronically. Don’t forget – unless you have European residency or a suitable visa, you can only spend 90 days in any six-month period in the EU.
How will EES work?
Don't worry, you don't need to do anything before you travel and there's no cost involved. The first time you enter the EU, you’ll need to register for EES at a self-service kiosk in the arrivals area of your destination airport, where you’ll also be asked to provide your biometric data (fingerprint and facial image), as well as other basic information. Once you’ve completed this step, you’ll be able to cross the border as normal via an electronic gate or manned booth. Please note – children under 12 won’t need to provide fingerprints!
On subsequent trips to any participating EU countries, you’ll be able to enter as normal without having to re-register every time you arrive, providing you enter at least once every three years and that you’re using the same passport you initially registered with. If your travel document expires, or you don’t visit the EU for three years or more, you’ll need to re-register for EES on your next visit.
When will EES be introduced?
EES is currently scheduled to be introduced in November 2024, although a specific date is yet to be formally announced by the EU.
Who does this apply to?
EES applies to all British passport holders, and any non-EU national entering the European Union, regardless of age.
How will this affect my trip?
The full details of EES haven’t been laid out yet and it’s likely this will vary by airport, but you’ll need to register for EES on arrival during your first visit to any of the listed countries following its introduction. You’ll also need to provide your passport details and biometric date before being allowed to cross the border.
More information about the EES can be found on the following websites:
The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS)
What is ETIAS?
The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) is an upcoming change affecting travel to EU countries. This means that UK and other non-EU passport holders will need to apply online for authorisation to enter before travelling to any of the following countries:
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
Switzerland
It’s sometimes referred to as an Electronic Travel Authorisation and is similar to the ESTA that’s required for travel to the USA.
When will the ETIAS be introduced?
The EU has indicated that the ETIAS is likely to be operational by mid-2025, so at the moment, you don't need to contact us or take any action.
Who does this apply to?
When the ETIAS is put in place, all UK and other non-EU passport holders will need to apply online for an ETIAS authorisation before travel, which will allow entry as often as you want for short stays, up to a maximum of 90 days in any 180-day period. There are exceptions for those who are resident in the EU or who hold visas.
How to apply
When the ETIAS is introduced, you’ll need to complete an online application form before you travel. More information around applying can be found here- https://travel-europe.europa.eu/etias/what-you-need-apply_en
How long will my ETIAS authorisation last?
Your ETIAS authorisation will last for three years or until your passport expires (whichever is sooner).
How much will it cost to get an ETIAS authorisation?
It will cost €7 per application for people aged 18-70. However, it will be free for under 18s and over 70s.
More information about the ETIAS can be found here. https://travel-europe.europa.eu/etias_en
As the situation is evolving, this blog only covers everything we know right now. We’ll continue to review things regularly – and things may change. If we receive any further information, we’ll update this page. Correct as of (26 September 2024).
Posted: 23rd Aug 2024. Updated: 26th Sept 2024.