EES and ETIAS - what you need to know about travel to Europe in 2026
Many UK travellers are unaware of recent changes to border entry in Europe and the implementation of a new Entry/Exit system known as EES.
The European Union has launched their new digital border system, the Entry/Exit System (EES), on October 12, 2025.
Here’s what you need to know:
- What is EES?
A digital border check system replacing passport stamps. Your entry, exit, or refusal will be electronically recorded.
- Who does it apply to?
Non-EU nationals traveling to the Schengen Area, whether you need a short-stay visa or travel visa-free. See who is exempt here.
- Why does it matter?
Faster border checks, stronger security, and less time waiting at passport control.
- What about ETIAS?
Once EES is fully implemented by April 2026, the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) will follow. You’ll only need to apply when ETIAS officially launches in late 2026.
For now, there’s nothing you need to do other than keep your passport valid, and be ready for a slightly different border experience the next time you travel.
To read more about the ETIAS system that will come into operation later in 2026, the links below provide useful information.
https://etias.com/what-is-etias
Travel to Europe will involve a crucial new requirement in 2026 and is coming soon - the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS). This pre-travel authorization is designed to enhance security while making border control more efficient.
Starting in 2026, most travellers from visa-exempt countries will need ETIAS approval before entering EU countries in the Schengen Area.
If you’re from the United Kingdom, obtaining ETIAS clearance will be a necessary step in your travel document preparation.
https://etias.com/etias-application
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/eu-entryexit-system
The countries in the Schengen area are:
https://www.gov.uk/travel-to-eu-schengen-area
Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.
Your total stay in the Schengen area must be no more than 90 days in every 180 days. It does not matter how many countries you visit. The 180-day period keeps ‘rolling’.
https://travel-europe.europa.eu/en/etias
Researched by Snowcard's frequent flyer Freddie D
December 2025