Travelling to Europe in 2025? What You Need to Know About the New EU Entry/Exit System (EES)

September 22, 2025Charlotte Wilson

If you’re dreaming of a European escape in 2025, there’s one new rule you’ll want to know about before you set off. From 12 October 2025, the EU Entry/Exit System (EES) will come into effect. This new digital border process will affect most British travellers heading to Europe – whether you’re flying to Spain, catching the Eurostar to Paris, or sailing on a Mediterranean cruise.

Don’t worry – it’s simple, free, and only takes a few minutes. Here’s our easy guide to the changes so you can get prepared and focus on enjoying your holiday.

Table of Contents

What Is the EU Entry/Exit System (EES)?

The Entry/Exit System (EES) is a new way for the EU to manage its borders. Instead of relying on passport stamps, the system will digitally record your entry and exit whenever you travel to the Schengen Area (which includes most European holiday hotspots like France, Spain, Italy, and Greece).

As part of this check, you’ll:

Provide fingerprints
Have a photo taken
Possibly answer a few quick questions about your trip

This system will help improve border security and ensure smoother travel across Europe.

Who Does It Affect?

The EES applies to non-EU citizens, which includes most British holidaymakers.

So if you’re heading to the Schengen Area (for example, Spain, France, Italy, Greece, Portugal, or Croatia), you’ll need to go through this new process.

What Will You Need to Do?

The good news is that there’s no need to apply in advance, and no fee to pay. Everything is done at the border when you arrive or leave.

Here’s what to expect:

On arrival – you’ll register your fingerprints and have a quick photo taken
On departure – you may have a second biometric check

That’s it! No extra paperwork, no apps, no hassle.

Will This Add Delays?

The checks are designed to be fast – just a few minutes per person. But because this is a brand-new system, there may be longer queues at busy times, especially in the early months.

If you’re travelling during peak holiday seasons (summer or school breaks), we recommend:

Arriving earlier than usual at the airport, ferry terminal, or Eurostar station
Allowing some extra time for border checks before boarding

What About Cruises?

If you’re sailing on a cruise that starts and ends in the UK, you may not notice any change.

However, if your cruise begins or finishes outside the UK (for example, a fly-cruise in Spain or Italy), you’ll need to complete the EES check when you enter the EU.

EES, ETIAS and ETA – What’s the Difference?

There are a few travel acronyms floating around, so let’s clear them up:

EES (from October 2025) – biometric checks at the EU border
ETIAS (from late 2026) – an online travel authorisation you’ll apply for before travelling, with a small fee (similar to the USA’s ESTA or the UK’s ETA)
ETA (already live in the UK) – applies to visitors entering the UK from certain countries

For now, EES is the only change British travellers need to think about in 2025 and early 2026.

How Can You Prepare?

Here are a few simple tips to make sure your trip goes smoothly:

✅ Bring your passport as normal – no advance application is needed

✅ Allow extra time at borders, especially during peak travel times

✅ Keep calm – the check is quick and straightforward

✅ Stay informed – check the latest travel advice on gov.uk/entry-exit-system

EES FAQs for British Travellers

Do I need to apply for EES in advance?
No, there’s nothing to do before you travel. Your details are taken at the border when you arrive.

Is there a cost for EES?
No, it’s completely free.

Will children need to complete the checks?
Yes, children will also have their photo taken, though rules for fingerprints may vary for younger travellers.

Will this happen every time I travel?
Yes, each time you enter or leave the Schengen Area, the system will record your travel digitally.

What if I have more than one passport?
You must use the same passport for entry and exit to avoid confusion.

Final Thoughts

The new EU Entry/Exit System (EES) may feel like a big change, but for holidaymakers, it’s nothing more than a quick photo and fingerprint check. Once you’re through, it’s back to what really matters – enjoying your holiday.

At Blue Bay Travel, we’re here to help you plan your next European adventure with confidence. From the sun-kissed beaches of Spain to the island-hopping escapes of Greece, your dream holiday is just a click away.

👉 Browse our latest holiday deals and book your escape today.