The long-awaited EU Entry Exit System (EES) is finally set to launch this autumn, introducing a digital border management process for non-EU citizens traveling into the Schengen Area. For UK passengers, this means a new way of registering at borders when entering Europe. The system promises smoother and more secure travel in the long run, but experts warn the transition could initially bring longer queues at ports, train stations, and airports.
What Is the EU Entry Exit System?
The EU Entry Exit System is a new digital platform that records when non-EU citizens enter and leave the Schengen Area. The Schengen zone includes 29 countries—among them popular UK holiday destinations such as France, Spain, Italy, Portugal, and Greece.
Currently, passports are stamped manually by border officers. With EES, that process will be replaced by biometric registration, which involves scanning a traveller’s passport, taking fingerprints, and capturing a photograph.
When Will the EU Entry Exit System Start?
After multiple delays, the European Commission has confirmed that the EES will begin on 12 October 2024.
- 12 October 2024: Coach passengers at Dover and some business travellers at Eurostar will start using EES.
- 1 November 2024: Other tourist traffic at Dover will gradually transition to the system.
- By April 2026: EES will be active at all Schengen border points, across all 29 participating countries.
Eurostar, Eurotunnel, and ferry ports like Dover will introduce the system in phases to manage demand.
What Will Travellers Need to Do?
For most UK travellers, the first trip after EES goes live will require full registration.
- Biometric Data Collection: Passengers will scan their passports, provide fingerprints, and have a photo taken.
- Answer Travel Questions: Kiosks will ask about accommodation, purpose of visit, and proof of sufficient funds.
- Verification by Officers: Border staff will oversee and verify the information collected.
Children under 12 will be exempt from fingerprinting, and registration will remain valid for three years. Each subsequent trip during that period will only require verification rather than full registration.
Where Will Registration Take Place?
The process will vary depending on the mode of transport:
- Airports: Passengers will complete registration upon arrival in Europe.
- Dover Ferries: Travellers will register before departure at kiosks in the port.
- Eurostar (London St Pancras): 49 EES kiosks have been installed where passengers will register before boarding.
- Eurotunnel (Channel Tunnel): More than 100 kiosks are ready on each side of the tunnel.
A mobile app is also in development to allow travellers to complete part of the process before reaching the border, although it won’t be widely available at the initial launch.
Concerns About Queues and Delays
While the EU Entry Exit System aims to streamline travel, ports and operators are worried about initial delays. At Dover, space is limited, and the time needed for biometric registration could create traffic bottlenecks.
Authorities have confirmed that during the transition period, if queues grow too long, they may temporarily revert to manual passport stamping. Eurostar’s cautious approach—starting only with business travellers—should also help avoid major disruption.
ETIAS: The Next Step After EES
EES is just one part of Europe’s broader border modernization. By late 2026, the EU also plans to introduce the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS).
Similar to the U.S. ESTA, ETIAS will require non-EU travellers who don’t need a visa, including UK citizens, to apply online before travel.
- Cost: €20 per application
- Validity: Three years
- Who Must Apply: All travellers, including minors under 18 and seniors over 70 (though they won’t have to pay).
Conclusion
The EU Entry Exit System represents one of the biggest changes to European travel in decades. While UK passengers may face initial queues and longer border checks, the system is designed to enhance security and simplify travel over the long term.
With the rollout starting in October 2024 and full implementation by April 2026, it is essential for travellers to prepare for new procedures at ports, train stations, and airports. Once combined with ETIAS in 2026, Europe’s borders will operate in a fully digital, pre-authorized format—marking a new era for international travel.
Source: BBC News
