Entry Exit System Rules for UK Travellers: Start Dates and What to Expect
The European Union (EU) has announced that the new Entry Exit System (EES) will start operating on October 12th. Everything will be fully operational by April 9, 2026.Â
Entry Exit System (EES): Biometric Checks and Border ControlÂ
The EU also declared that the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) will start in a time range between October and December of 2026. ETIAS, which is required for travelers who do not need a visa, will have to undergo a substantial fee increase, from its original 7 euros to 20 euros, report by the Portugal News.Â
The EES will apply to all non-Schengen nationals and will require them to provide biometric data such as fingerprints and even facial recognition. This information will be kept for a period of three years. Children under the age of 12 will be exempt from fingerprinting.Â
The EES will be gradually rolled out over a period of six months and will be available at all EU external borders. The main goal of the SES is to modernize the management of these borders, enhance the efficiency of checks, and strengthen security. The system aims to combat identity fraud, organized crime and indentiy fraud. It will also allow authorities to monitor the stay duration of foreign citizens more efficiently and take action if their stay exceeds the permitted time allotted to them. Read about how the low interest rates in Portugal attract UK retirees to get Portugal residency.
European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS): What UK Citizens Need to Know
ETIAS is set to launch in the final quarter of 2026 and will function similarly to the UK’s ET system. Citizens who are exempt from visa requirements for short stays will be required to present the e-visa as it is deemed mandatory. This includes UK citizens as well.
According to the EU’s Directorate-General for Migration and Home Affairs, the ETIAS will cost 20 euros. The increase in the fee is due to the need to align operating costs in accordance with programs from other countries. However, people that are over the age of 70 and under 18 will not be required to pay the fee. The application process should be completed before traveling.
Similar To UK ET System
The ETIAS will have similarities to the ET system of the UK, and is expected to be fully functional in the last quarter of 2026. Citizens who are exempt from visa requirements for short stays will be required to present the e visa, as it’s deemed mandatory. This includes UK citizens as well.
