EU finally sets start date for UK travellers’ entry-exit system as Etias visa price is trebled
Date set: Europe’s much-delayed entry-exit system to begin
- Europe's Entry-Exit System (EES) is scheduled to begin for some UK travellers to the EU on 12 October 2025.
- The EES aims to digitise border crossings, monitor non-EU citizens, identify suspected criminals, and enforce the 90-day stay limit within 180 days.
- British passport holders will need to provide fingerprints and facial biometrics, with children under 12 exempt from fingerprint requirements.
- The system will have a phased implementation until 9 April 2026, becoming fully operational at all external border crossings from 10 April 2026.
- The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (Etias) is now expected to start between October and December 2026, with its fee increasing from €7 to €20.