European Entry/Exit System (EES) Hub for UK Travellers

Everything you need to know about the EU’s Entry/Exit System (EES), including who it affects, how it works, practical travel tips, the latest updates and how to prepare for your next European holiday.

Last updated: August 2026

Planning a holiday to Europe? If you’re travelling from the UK, it’s important to understand the European Entry/Exit System (EES) before you go

The European Entry/Exit System (EES) is the European Union’s new digital border management system for non-EU travellers, including UK passport holders. After launching on 12^th October 2025, the system became fully operational on 10^th April 2026, replacing traditional passport stamping with digital records of travellers entering and leaving participating Schengen* countries.

While the new system has been introduced to improve border security and modernise the way travellers enter Europe, it also means you may experience additional checks and longer waiting times, particularly during busy holiday periods or when travelling for the first time under EES.

This guide explains everything UK travellers need to know about the EU Entry/Exit System, including who it affects, how the registration process works, when you’ll need to provide your fingerprints and photograph, the countries that use EES, and how you can prepare before travelling.

Quick Navigation

• What is the European Entry/Exit System (EES)?
• When did EES start?
• Who does EES apply to?
• Which countries use EES?
• How does the Entry/Exit System work?
• 7 ways to avoid delays
• Travel to Europe app
• Travelling by plane, ferry, train and cruise
• Travelling with children
• EES travel checklist
• EES and travel insurance
• ETIAS vs EES
• Frequently Asked Questions

Key Takeaways

1. The European Entry/Exit System (EES) is now fully operational across participating Schengen countries.
2. It applies to most UK travellers visiting Europe for short stays.
3. Your first journey under EES will usually involve providing a facial photograph and fingerprints.
4. Future trips should be quicker as your biometric information is already registered.
5. EES replaces passport stamps with secure digital records.
6. Ireland and Cyprus do not currently participate in the Entry/Exit System.
7. Allow extra time at airports, ferry ports and rail terminals, especially during busy travel periods.
8. The Entry/Exit System is different from ETIAS, which is a separate travel authorisation due to be introduced in the future.
9. Check your passport validity before travelling and ensure you have suitable travel insurance.

* The Schengen Area covers most EU countries plus Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland, where border checks are removed between members — but UK travellers will need to register under the new Entry/Exit System when visiting.

Where can I find official EES information?

For the latest updates, visit:

• GOV.UK Foreign Travel Advice
• European Union Travel Information
• Your airline, ferry operator or travel provider