What is the European Entry/Exit System (EES)?
The European Entry/Exit System (EES) is the European Union’s digital border control system for non-EU travellers, including UK passport holders. It replaces manual passport stamps with electronic records of your entry and exit from participating Schengen countries.
Is the Entry/Exit System now live?
Yes. The system officially launched on 12th October 2025 and became fully operational across participating countries on 10th April 2026.
Do UK travellers need to use EES?
Yes. Most UK passport holders travelling to participating Schengen countries for holidays, business trips or short stays will use the Entry/Exit System.
Which countries use EES?
Most Schengen countries use the Entry/Exit System, including France, Spain, Portugal, Italy, Germany, Greece, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Norway and many others.
Does Ireland use the Entry/Exit System?
No. Ireland is not part of the Schengen Area and does not participate in EES.
Does Cyprus use EES?
Not currently. Cyprus is an EU member but is not currently participating in the Entry/Exit System.
Do I need to apply for EES before travelling?
No. Registration takes place when you arrive at a participating border crossing.
What information does the EES collect?
During your first registration, border authorities typically collect:
Will I still receive a passport stamp using the EES?
In most cases, no. Your journeys are recorded electronically instead of receiving physical passport stamps.
How long does EES registration take?
The registration process only takes a few minutes, but waiting times can vary depending on passenger numbers and the border crossing you’re using.
Your first journey may take longer than future visits.
Will I need to provide fingerprints every time?
Usually not. Your biometric information is generally collected during your first registration and reused for future journeys unless it needs updating.
What is the Travel to Europe app?
The Travel to Europe app allows eligible travellers to complete parts of the registration process before arriving at border control.
Support currently varies by country and is expected to expand over time.
Does EES apply if I’m flying?
Yes. Passengers arriving by air into participating Schengen countries will complete the Entry/Exit System process.
Does EES apply to ferry passengers?
Yes. The process may take place before departure or on arrival, depending on your route and operator.
Does EES apply to Eurostar?
Yes. Passengers travelling via Eurostar complete border checks before boarding the train.
Does EES apply to Eurotunnel?
Yes. Drivers travelling through the Channel Tunnel should expect the Entry/Exit System to form part of the existing border process.
Does EES apply to cruises?
It depends on your itinerary.
If your cruise enters participating Schengen countries, you may need to complete EES registration.
Do children need to register for EES?
Yes.
Children travelling on UK passports are generally included within the Entry/Exit System requirements. Children under 12 do not have their fingerprints scanned, but they will still have their passport details and facial image recorded in EES. Children aged 12 and over will have their fingerprints and facial image recorded, where required.
Parents or guardians should allow extra time for EES checks when travelling with children.
What happens if I overstay in Europe?
The Entry/Exit System automatically records how long you’ve spent in the Schengen Area.
Overstaying the permitted 90 days within any 180-day period could affect future travel and may result in immigration penalties.
Will border queues be longer?
During busy periods or while travellers complete their first EES registrations, longer waiting times are possible.
As more travellers become registered, processing should become quicker.
Should I arrive earlier than usual?
It depends on your mode of transport. Always follow your airline or travel operator’s guidance and allow extra time where recommended, particularly during school holidays or your first journey under EES.
Is EES the same as ETIAS?
No. EES records your entry and exit at the border, while ETIAS is a travel authorisation you’ll need before travelling once it launches.
Learn more here.
