The European Union’s new border system will soon impact UK travellers heading to the Schengen Area. Starting on October 12, 2025, UK passport holders will be required to provide biometric data at border crossings. This move is set to overhaul the current process by digitising travel records and enhancing border security.
The Entry-Exit System (EES), alongside the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), is part of the EU’s effort to tighten control over non-EU citizens, including UK nationals post-Brexit.
The changes, which will be gradually introduced over a period of several months, aim to modernise border procedures and bolster safety across European countries.
Phased Rollout of the EES
From October 12, 2025, the Entry-Exit System will require UK travellers to scan their passports, along with facial biometrics and fingerprints.
The system will apply to all visitors in the Schengen Area but will be rolled out gradually until April 9, 2026. Some border points will adopt the new process immediately, while others will continue using traditional methods until the transition is completed.
Children under 12 years old are exempt from fingerprinting, though they will still need to provide their facial biometrics.
According to reports, the EES aims to streamline travel and more accurately track the movements of non-EU citizens. This system will also help identify potential criminals and ensure that travellers do not exceed the limit of 90 days within a 180-day period, an important tool for immigration control.
UK travellers can expect an additional layer of scrutiny at airports and other border points, as the data collected will be stored in a central database accessible across the Schengen Area. While this shift is designed to improve security, the transition period could lead to delays and congestion at high-traffic locations.
ETIAS to Cost £17: A New Travel Requirement
In addition to the EES, the ETIAS will soon be a mandatory requirement for UK nationals. Starting in 2026, all UK citizens travelling to the EU will need to apply for travel authorisation under the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), which will cost €20 (£17).
The authorisation is required for short-term stays of up to 90 days and will be linked to the traveller’s passport.
The introduction of the ETIAS comes alongside changes to other border regulations, which aim to better control migration and enhance the safety of the Schengen Zone. Although the cost has increased from €7 to €20, exemptions will be available for those under 18, over 70, and certain family members of EU citizens.
