As travel to Europe evolves, two significant changes to border control and travel authorisation systems are set to impact British citizens and other international travellers. The European Union (EU) is introducing the EU Entry/Exit System (EES) and the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), both of which will bring new requirements for short-term travel to Europe. These changes are designed to enhance security and streamline border crossings within the Schengen Area, but for UK citizens, they also mean adapting to new entry and exit protocols.
While the launch dates for both systems are yet to be officially confirmed, understanding what these changes entail can help you prepare for the future of European travel.
EU Entry/Exit System (EES): A Major Overhaul for Border Control
The EU Entry/Exit System (EES) is an electronic system that will replace the traditional passport stamping procedure currently in place at European borders. Under this new system, every time you enter or leave the EU or Schengen Area countries, your entry and exit will be recorded electronically. This includes capturing biometric data such as a facial scan and fingerprints.
The system is expected to be rolled out before the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), although specific dates for implementation have been delayed.
Who Will be Affected by the EU Entry/Exit System?
The EES applies to non-EU nationals who are travelling to the EU for short stays, which are defined as visits of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. This will affect most travellers from the UK, as well as other third-country nationals. The system will track movements of those entering and exiting the Schengen Area, providing enhanced security and facilitating quicker border processing.
It is important to note that Irish passport holders are exempt from EES, as are British citizens with EU residency. Additionally, children under the age of 12 will be required to provide a facial scan but will not need to submit fingerprints.
When Will EES Apply?
While the system was initially set to launch by the end of 2024, it has been delayed, and there is no confirmed start date yet. However, once operational, EES will impact travellers to the following Schengen Area countries:
- Austria
- Belgium
- Bulgaria
- Croatia
- Cyprus (Passport control is still manual here)
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Italy
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Netherlands
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- Romania
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
At certain points of entry such as the Port of Dover or via international train stations (e.g., London St Pancras and Folkestone), UK passport holders will be required to undergo EES checks on departure. However, once these procedures are completed in the UK, there will be no need for further checks once you arrive at your EU destination.
Cruise travellers also need to be aware of EES: if the cruise departs and returns to a UK port, EES checks will not apply. However, if the cruise departs from or ends in an EU country, entry and exit checks will be required at relevant ports.
European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS): The New Travel Authorisation
Similar to the United States’ ESTA system and the UK’s ETA, the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) will require travellers to apply for an online authorisation before entering the Schengen Area. While the ETIAS is still in development, it is expected to be operational in the near future, and once it launches, it will apply to all visa-exempt travellers from third countries, including the UK.
Who Will Need an ETIAS?
The ETIAS will be mandatory for citizens of countries that currently do not require a visa for short stays in Europe. This includes most UK citizens travelling for holidays, business, or short visits, provided they do not exceed 90 days within a 180-day period.
Key points to remember about ETIAS:
- Exemptions: Irish passport holders and UK citizens with EU residency are exempt.
- Cost: The ETIAS application fee will be approximately €7 (around £6), and it will be free for those under the age of 18 and over 71 years old.
- Validity: Once granted, the ETIAS will be valid for three years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. Multiple entries will be allowed during this period.
How to Apply for ETIAS?
Applications will be processed through an official website (www.europa.eu/etias), but at the time of writing, the system is not yet operational. The process will require basic personal information, passport details, and a few questions regarding past criminal history, travel to conflict zones, and any issues with extradition.
Travellers will need to apply for their own ETIAS (i.e., no group applications), and in the case of minors, a parent or guardian can apply on their behalf. It’s important to be cautious, as there are already numerous unofficial websites offering ETIAS applications. These sites may overcharge or compromise your personal information, so ensure you only apply through the official EU website.
Final Takes: What Does This Mean for UK Travellers?
With both EES and ETIAS soon to be implemented, UK travellers need to stay informed about these changes. While the delays in their rollout offer some leeway, it’s wise to begin planning ahead for these requirements.
Both systems are designed to improve security and make border control more efficient within the EU and Schengen Area. The introduction of EES will mean biometric checks for most UK travellers, and ETIAS will offer an extra layer of security by requiring pre-authorisation for entry.
For those with regular travel plans to Europe, it is essential to check your passport’s expiry date, stay up to date on the latest developments regarding these systems, and make sure that your details are accurately recorded in any applications for ETIAS.
These changes are a sign of the growing trend towards digitalising border control systems, offering more streamlined travel while ensuring safety and security across Europe. Stay ahead of the curve, and ensure your European trips remain hassle-free when these new systems take effect.
For more information on the EES and ETIAS, visit the official EU websites at Europa.eu and Gov.uk.
Get in touch: For a comprehensive understanding of your options or queries on UK immigration matters, contact GigaLegal Solicitors at 02074067654 or click here to book a no-obligation consultation with an immigration expert.