The EES: Say Goodbye to Passport Stamps

If you’re planning a trip to Europe, there’s a major update on the horizon that could affect how (and how quickly) you get through passport control - especially if you’re a British traveller.

It’s called the Entry/Exit System (EES), and while it might sound like something out of a sci-fi film, it’s simply the EU’s way of digitising border checks for non-EU citizens. And yes, that includes UK passport holders.

The EES is expected to go live from 12 October 2025, with a gradual rollout across Schengen Area borders into early 2026. Its purpose? To replace the traditional passport stamping system with digital records of entry and exit - as well as refusals of entry.

What's Changing, and Why?

Instead of a border official manually stamping your passport, the EES will register:

1. Your name and passport details
2. Facial image
3. Fingerprints
4. Date, time, and location of your border crossing

This system will apply to non-EU citizens entering Schengen countries for short stays (typically up to 90 days in any 180-day period). It includes both those who require a visa and those who enter visa-free, which would include UK citizens travelling on holiday, for business, or short visits.

The idea is to tighten border security, simplify the work of border guards, and stop people from overstaying.

What This Means for Travellers

The first time you travel after the system launches, you’ll need to provide both fingerprints and a facial scan. On future visits, the system will usually reuse your stored biometrics. This means more checks, more scanning, and potentially longer queues.

So if you’re flying to Spain, skiing in France, or catching a Christmas market in Germany this winter, leave more time for border processing than usual. Airlines and travel insurers won’t cover you if you miss your flight because you underestimated the EES queues.

No More Guesswork

The EES digitally tracks how long you've been in the Schengen Area, helping border officials enforce the 90/180-day rule. If you’re used to hopping in and out of Europe multiple times a year, your days will now be counted automatically.

It’s great for reducing errors - but also removes the leeway some travellers may have quietly relied on in the past.

What About My Privacy?

Yes, the system collects your biometric data. But it’s built under EU data protection laws, which include strict limits on how long your info is stored (usually three years from your last exit) and who can access it.

The data won't be used for marketing, sold to third parties, or tied to other EU databases outside border security.

Who Will Be Most Affected?

Some groups are more likely to face delays or disruption when the system goes live. The FCDO’s TravelAware campaign has identified several higher-risk groups:

1. Young travellers, including those heading on gap years or short city breaks
2. Older travellers and retirees, particularly those unfamiliar with digital systems
3. Sports fans, stag and hen groups, or anyone going abroad for events
4. Independent travellers who aren’t part of organised tours or packages

If this is you (or even if it isn’t) we recommend giving yourself extra buffer time at the airport, especially during the early months of EES rollout.

Don't Forget Your Travel Insurance

As always, having valid travel insurance is essential - not just for peace of mind, but for unexpected medical bills, lost bags, or trip cancellations. But it’s worth remembering that missing a flight due to long queues at border control won’t be covered, even under the best policies. So plan accordingly.

Booking with us at Direct Travel means we’ve got your back with clear policy details, reliable medical screening, and flexible cover options.

BY HOLLY GARWOOD, 17TH SEPTEMBER 2025

Sources:
European Commission: Entry/Exit System (EES)
European Commission: Smart Borders Policy
UK Parliament Commons Library Briefing – The EU Entry/Exit System
European Western Balkans: EES Explainer
FCDO TravelAware
FCM Travel Management – EES Travel Update