The EU Entry Exit System is changing in late 2025 and 2026
Revised timeline
On 5 March 2025 , EU Home Affairs Ministers endorsed a revised timeline for the implementation of the Entry/Exit System (EES) and the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS). The EES became operational from 12th October 2025. ETIAS is expected to follow - now further delayed.
The new Entry/Exit System (EES) started operations on Sunday 12 October 2025. European countries using the EES gradually introduced it at border crossing points with full implementation by 10 April 2026. There have however been problems in summer 2026 and the system has been suspended on occasion.
The specific date for the launch of ETIAS will be announced later by the European Commission. The start of ETIAS will be followed by transitional and grace periods, which will last for at least 12 months.
https://travel-europe.europa.eu/pub
The UK Government guidance can be found here
Entry/Exit system (EES)
This started on Sunday 12th October 2025 (see note above)
As EES is introduced, you will need to create a digital record with biometric information (finger prints and facial image) on your first visit to the Schengen area at the port or airport on arrival.
Some information can be pre-registered on an App on your phone. As at August 2026, only Sweden and Portugal are using the App. https://travel-europe.europa.eu/ees/Travel-to-Europe-mobile-app
Passports will continue to be stamped as usual if a digital record is not created.
Use the link below to see more details.
More information at https://travel-europe.europa.eu/ees
European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS).
When ETIAS is introduced, (as at August 2026 it is indefinitely delayed) you will need to apply for authorisation to enter Schengen area countries if using a UK passport. You will need to provide personal information and details about your trip, and pay a EUR 20 fee (aged 18 or over and less than 70), as part of the authorisation process.
The European Union will inform about the specific date for the start of ETIAS several months prior to its launch. ETIAS officials are expeced to put forward a revised timetable in September 2026
More information at https://travel-europe.europa.eu/etias