EU Entry/Exit System: What UK Travellers Should Expect

UK travellers visiting the Schengen Area for a short stay should expect their entry and exit to be recorded by the European Union’s Entry/Exit System (EES), including the collection of biometric data at the border. The exact process and any wait can vary by crossing, so check the destination country’s current guidance and your transport operator’s instructions before departure.

Who the EU Entry/Exit System applies to

EES records the entry and exit of non-EU nationals travelling for short stays in participating European countries. UK citizens on short visits are among the travellers who should expect to be registered under the system.

The system applies at participating external borders. The process you encounter may depend on where and how you enter, so do not assume every airport, port or land crossing will handle registration in the same way.

What to expect at the border

Border authorities use EES to record travel and collect biometric data under the system’s rules. Follow the instructions given by border staff and allow time for the checks as you plan your journey.

Queues and procedures can differ between crossings. The available facilities, passenger volumes and local arrangements may affect how quickly travellers move through checks. These practical differences mean there is no single waiting time that applies to every route.

EES registration does not replace your passport or other entry requirements. Check that your travel documents meet the requirements for your destination and trip, and follow any instructions from the relevant authorities.

Checks to make before you travel

Before setting out, check:

• The destination country’s current official guidance for UK visitors and EES.
• Your airline, ferry or other transport operator’s instructions for the crossing.
• Your passport validity and any other entry requirements for your trip, including passport and EES checks.
• Whether your route uses a participating external border and where checks take place.

The EU’s EES information page explains the system’s purpose and scope. For route-specific procedures, use the destination country’s latest guidance and your operator’s travel updates.

Source: European Union