EU’s Major Border Overhaul Now Live: What Travellers to France, Germany, Spain, and the UK Need to Know Before October 2025! – Travel And Tour World

The European Union is set to undergo a significant transformation in how travelers from non-EU countries enter and exit its borders. The much-anticipated Entry/Exit System (EES), confirmed by the European Commission, is scheduled to be implemented starting on October 12, 2025. This new system is expected to replace the traditional passport stamping process, ushering in a more efficient and secure method of border control. While this change promises improvements, it also introduces new requirements and processes for travelers. This article explores the impact of the EES on non-EU travelers, its phased rollout, and the future introduction of the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS).

The Introduction of the Entry/Exit System (EES)

The Entry/Exit System is designed to streamline and enhance border control procedures across the European Union, particularly for travelers from non-EU countries, including the United Kingdom. For the first time, all non-EU visitors entering the Schengen Area will be required to submit biometric data—specifically, fingerprints and facial photographs. This biometric data will be stored in a centralized database for up to three years, offering more precise tracking of travelers and improving security. The system is designed to replace the manual passport stamping that has long been a hallmark of border checks.

In an effort to make the system more user-friendly and less time-consuming, the EES aims to automate the entry and exit process. The data gathered will not only serve to monitor the identity of travelers but also help authorities track entry and exit dates more accurately, making it easier to detect overstays, particularly for visitors who exceed the 90-day limit within a 180-day period. The introduction of biometric data also offers enhanced security by reducing the likelihood of identity fraud and improving the ability of border officials to verify the legitimacy of travelers.

Changes for Non-EU Travelers: What to Expect

Starting October 12, 2025, non-EU travelers will need to undergo biometric data collection upon their arrival in the Schengen Area. This includes providing both fingerprints and a facial photograph, which will be stored in the system. However, certain exemptions apply, most notably for children under the age of 12, who will not be required to submit fingerprints. Despite this, children will still be required to have their photograph taken as part of the entry process.

Beyond the biometric data collection, the EES will automatically record the date and location of entry and exit for each traveler. This will help authorities track travel patterns, ensuring that visitors comply with the maximum stay limits. The system aims to improve overall border control efficiency while also enhancing security across the Schengen Area.

Phased Rollout: From a Single Launch to Gradual Implementation

Originally, the Entry/Exit System was set to launch in November 2024, with the expectation of a single, EU-wide rollout. However, the implementation faced significant delays, primarily due to technical concerns raised by member states, including Germany and France. These concerns were largely related to the adequacy of testing and the scale of deployment required to implement the system across all external EU borders.

As a result, the decision was made to adopt a phased rollout, beginning on October 12, 2025. This gradual implementation is expected to reduce the risk of technical issues and minimize disruptions, especially during peak travel periods. For example, the October school holidays will see many British travelers among the first to experience the new system. During this initial phase, border officers will continue manually stamping passports while trial operations of the EES are conducted. As the system becomes more widely operational, border officers will shift towards fully automated checks.

The phased rollout allows authorities to address potential issues and gather valuable feedback from travelers and border control personnel before the system is fully implemented across all borders. By April 9, 2026, the EES is expected to be fully operational at all external EU borders, marking a new era of automated, biometric-based entry and exit processes.

ETIAS and Additional Changes: The Next Phase of Travel Authorization

In addition to the Entry/Exit System, the European Union will introduce the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) in a second phase, scheduled for implementation between October and December 2026. ETIAS is similar to the U.S. ESTA system and will require travelers from visa-exempt countries, such as the United Kingdom, the United States, and Canada, to apply for travel authorization online before visiting the EU. The process will involve completing a brief online application, which will include providing personal details and answering security-related questions.

ETIAS is expected to streamline the travel authorization process, allowing for quicker and more efficient entry into the EU. However, the system is not without its costs. Initially, the fee for ETIAS applications was set at €7, but it is now expected to increase to €20, sparking some criticism from the travel industry. Despite this, ETIAS is seen as a necessary step in maintaining security while ensuring that travelers can continue to visit the EU with minimal hassle.

The Role of Communication and Preparation for Travelers

As the launch date for the Entry/Exit System draws closer, the importance of clear and timely communication becomes even more apparent. Mark Tanzer, CEO of ABTA, emphasized that the announcement of the EES start date is a crucial step in preparing the travel sector for the upcoming changes. This clarity will enable travel businesses to better inform their clients and ensure that travelers are aware of the new requirements well in advance of their trips.

ABTA has committed to providing its members with detailed information about the EES and its implications for travel. Tanzer highlighted the importance of both the EU and the UK governments working together to communicate the changes effectively. This includes addressing any concerns or confusion travelers may have, ensuring that the transition to the new system is as smooth as possible.

One of the key ways travelers can streamline their experience with the EES is by using the EES app, which will allow them to pre-register their biometric data. This will significantly reduce processing times at airports and ports, making the entry and exit process much quicker and more efficient. As the travel industry prepares for the system’s rollout, travel companies and industry organizations are expected to play a significant role in educating passengers and helping them navigate the changes.

Challenges for the Travel Industry and Passengers

While the EES represents a major step forward in digitizing border checks and improving security, it also presents challenges for both travel businesses and passengers. For travel businesses, the introduction of biometric data collection will require adjustments to booking and check-in systems, as well as increased training for staff who will need to assist travelers with the new processes. Airlines and airports will need to invest in new technology and infrastructure to support the implementation of the EES, which could lead to increased costs in the short term.

For passengers, the new requirements could introduce additional delays and complexities, especially for those unfamiliar with biometric data collection or those who have concerns about data privacy. The introduction of both EES and ETIAS will require travelers to be more proactive in managing their travel documentation and complying with the new regulations. While these changes are ultimately designed to enhance security and efficiency, passengers will need to adjust to the new systems, which could lead to some initial confusion and frustration.

Preparing for the Future of European Travel

Despite these challenges, the introduction of the Entry/Exit System and the European Travel Information and Authorization System marks a significant shift in how travel to and from the EU will be managed. As more countries move toward automated, biometric-based border controls, the EU is positioning itself to remain at the forefront of travel security and efficiency. With a clear timeline for implementation and continued communication from industry organizations, travelers and businesses alike will be able to prepare for the changes ahead.

As the EU continues to digitize its border control processes, the overall goal is to make travel safer, faster, and more efficient. By modernizing border checks and improving the ability to monitor visitors, the EU is enhancing both security and the overall travel experience. For travelers, the key to a smooth transition will lie in understanding the new requirements, staying informed, and ensuring that they are prepared for the changes as they approach.

Conclusion: Embracing the Future of Border Control

The Entry/Exit System represents a bold step forward for European border management, signaling the EU’s commitment to improving both security and the traveler experience. While the implementation of this new system may present challenges, the gradual rollout, clear communication, and the introduction of helpful tools like the EES app should help ensure a smooth transition for travelers. As the EU continues to embrace technological innovation, the future of European travel is set to be more secure, efficient, and accessible for everyone.