Heading to Europe? The New EU Entry/Exit System Starts 12 October 2025 - UK Traveller Guide
If you’ve ever collected passport stamps as souvenirs, you might notice something different on your next trip to Europe.
From 12 October 2025, UK travellers going into the Schengen area will be met with something new: the EU Entry/Exit System (EES).
It does away with the old ink stamp and replaces it with digital records, but don’t worry, it doesn’t make travel harder.
Here’s what families need to know so you can travel smarter, not stress harder.
What Exactly is EES?
EES is a digital border system for non-EU nationals. If you hold a UK passport, your entry into, and exit from, Schengen countries will be logged electronically.
No more stamps for most crossings.
What Information Is Recorded?
This system will be used to record the date, time, and place of entry/exit.
Your passport details and your biometric data in the form of a live photo, and in some cases, fingerprints
Why is This Information Needed?
This helps enforce the rule that you can stay 90 days in any 180 days across all Schengen countries.
It should also speed up border checks once everything is running smoothly.
When & Who Is Affected?
Start date: 12 October 2025.
The rollout will happen gradually over six months, and full implementation is expected by 10 April 2026.
Who needs to follow it?
UK passport holders – travelling to Schengen countries for holidays, business trips, or family visits.
Exemptions – if you hold a long-stay visa or residence permit in an EU country.
Children under 12 – will still have a live photo taken, but usually won’t need to provide fingerprints.
Non-Schengen destinations – such as Ireland and Cyprus are not covered by EES
What It Will Feel Like, In Practice
First crossing after EES is live:
You’ll scan your passport at a kiosk, have a live photo taken, and possibly give fingerprints.
After that
Things should go faster. Your biometric data plus passport will verify you without all the extra steps.
During Your Trip
The system will track, digitally, how long you stay.
But that doesn’t relieve you of responsibility; it’s still up to you to count your days and stay within the 90 days in any 180-day limit.
When Leaving
No exit stamp, but departure will usually be logged electronically.
During the rollout phase, some border points may still use stamps or manual checks until all systems are live.
Why the Change?
Quicker border checks once everything is rolling (though there might be delays during the transition).
More consistent enforcement of the 90/180-day rule.
Stronger security: biometric checks help reduce fraud & misuse.
Your Travel Checklist for EES
Make this your pre-travel routine so nothing catches you out:
|
✅ What to do |
Why it matters |
|
Check your passport validity |
If it’s near expiry, you may run into issues. Also, a new passport means you may need to re-register in EES. |
|
Know which countries you’ll visit |
EES only applies in the Schengen area. |
|
Count your travel days |
You must stay within 90 days in any 180. Plan your trips accordingly. |
|
Expect biometrics |
Live photo always; fingerprints usually only if aged 12+. |
|
Allow extra time at borders |
Especially during the rollout period. Be generous with travel timing. |
|
Keep IDs handy |
Some countries require ID while travelling internally in Schengen. |
What About ETIAS? Different but Related
EES = Entry/Exit System.
Tracks your passport + biometrics when entering/exiting the Schengen zone.
ETIAS = European Travel Information and Authorisation System.
Think of it like ESTA for the US , you apply before you travel, pay a small fee, and it gives you pre-travel authorisation.
Expected in late 2026.
The fee is said to be around £17.30 / $23.40 / €20, and it will be valid for 3 years.
Exemptions apply for children under 18 and adults over 70.
FAQs (Because We All Have Them)
What if I travel just before EES starts?
If you enter before 12 October 2025, you’ll get the old stamps.
If you leave after it starts, border staff may log that exit in the new system manually.
Your first full EES registration will happen on your next Schengen trip after rollout.
Will queues be longer?
Probably yes, for a while.
Major airports, Eurostar terminals, and busiest border crossings may take more time initially.
Packing patience and arrival early will make things easier.
What if my fingerprints don’t work?
If there’s a technical issue or worn fingerprints, you’ll still give a photo. Border officers will have backup procedures.
Do children need to do all this?
Kids are photographed, but fingerprints are usually only required for travellers aged 12+.
Final Thoughts
Travelling to Europe in 2025 will look a little different with the new EES system in place.
By understanding how entry and exit are recorded, giving yourself extra time at the border during the rollout, and following the checklists in this guide, you can make your trip smoother and stress-free.
Being prepared means you can focus on enjoying your holiday rather than worrying about the paperwork.
Disclaimer: I’ve compiled this guide using the most up-to-date information available, including official guidance from the UK Government website. I’m not an immigration or border control expert, so always double-check the latest guidance on gov.uk before you travel.
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