Are You Ready for Europe's New EES?

The EU Entry/Exit System (EES), a new automated IT system, is set to be gradually rolled out starting on 12 October. This will replace the manual stamping of passports for non-EU visitors.

It will affect commercial vehicle drivers on international work.

EES will be a requirement when entering Schengen area countries including Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland. EES will not be required when travelling to Ireland and Cyprus.

British travellers will need to register on their first visit to a participating country after EES is introduced. This registration is valid for a rolling three-year period or until the passport expires.

On exit, and for subsequent entries and exits to or from a participating country, travellers will only need to scan their passport and provide either their fingerprints or a photograph at the border.

European countries using EES will phase this new system in over six months, meaning different ports may have varying requirements until April 2026. This should allow for a gradual implementation that minimises disruption, particularly at peak periods.

For travellers using the Port of Dover or Eurotunnel at Folkestone, the process will take place at the border before they leave the UK.

More information on the Government website: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/eu-entryexit-system