New European Travel Rules

 

 

Change 1: EES – Entry/Exit System

Coming into effect: October 12, 2025

 

What is EES?

The Entry/Exit System (EES) is a new EU-wide system that will electronically track the entry and exit of non-EU travellers into and out of the Schengen Area – a zone of 29 European countries with no internal borders.

 

What is the purpose of EES?

• Modernise border control by replacing manual passport stamping with a digital system.
• Streamline travel by making border checks quicker and more efficient.
• Strengthen identity verification through the use of biometric data (facial and fingerprint recognition).
• Improve EU security by preventing illegal stay and enhancing law enforcement capabilities.
• Combat identity fraud, terrorism, and organised crime.

 

Key Dates:

• October 12, 2025:
  EES launches at 10% of border crossing points in Schengen countries.
• December 2025:
  Facial and fingerprint biometrics become mandatory for all travellers at EES-equipped borders.
• January 2026:
  Most border points are expected to operate using EES.
• April 9, 2026:
  Full rollout of EES across the entire Schengen Area.

 

Note: EES will apply to 30 European countries, including popular holiday destinations like Spain, France, Greece, and Italy

 

 

 

 

Change 2: ETIAS – European Travel Information and Authorisation System

Planned rollout: Late 2026

 

What is ETIAS?

ETIAS is a mandatory travel authorisation for non-EU citizens visiting countries in the Schengen Zone for short stays (up to 90 days within any 180-day period).

Think of it as a European equivalent of the U.S. ESTA – not a visa, but an authorisation linked to your passport, required before boarding a flight or crossing the border.

 

How much will ETIAS cost?

The fee for ETIAS will be €7 for applicants aged 18–70.
Travellers under 18 or over 70 will be exempt from the fee.

 

How do I apply for ETIAS?

• The process is entirely online and should take about 10 minutes.
• You’ll need a valid passport, an email address, and a debit/credit card to apply.
• Most applications will be approved within minutes, but in some cases, it may take up to 30 days if further checks are needed.

 

Important: ETIAS will be mandatory for all eligible travellers. You will not be allowed to enter the Schengen Area without it once the system is live.

 

 

 

 

System	What It Does	Start Date	Mandatory From	Affects
EES	Digitally records border entries/exits with biometrics	Oct 12, 2025	Dec 2025	Non-EU citizens
ETIAS	Pre-travel authorisation required for visa-free entry	Late 2026	From launch date	Non-EU citizens entering Schengen

 

 

 

Read more:

https://travel-europe.europa.eu/en/etias

https://www.abta.com/tips-and-advice/planning-and-booking-a-holiday/upcoming-changes-travel-europe