Last updated: 26 October 2026
The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) and the Entry/Exit System (EES) are European Union initiatives designed to strengthen border security and improve the management of travel to participating European countries.
Travellers, including British passport holders, should understand how these systems work and what they may need to do before travelling.
What is ETIAS?
The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) is a travel authorisation system for eligible non-EU nationals who do not need a visa to visit participating European countries for short stays.
ETIAS is not a visa, and having an approved travel authorisation does not guarantee entry. Travellers must still meet the relevant entry requirements.
When will ETIAS launch?
ETIAS is scheduled to launch in the last quarter of 2026. The exact launch date should be confirmed through official European Union announcements.
As of 26 October 2026, travellers should check the official ETIAS website for the latest information before making travel arrangements. Applications should only be submitted through the official channels once the system opens.
Does ETIAS apply to UK travellers?
British citizens travelling on a British passport will generally need an approved ETIAS travel authorisation for eligible short visits to participating European countries once the system becomes operational, unless an exemption applies.
Travellers should check the requirements for their nationality, destination and circumstances before departure.
For further information, visit the official ETIAS website.
What is EES?
The Entry/Exit System (EES) is an automated border management system that electronically records the entry and exit of eligible non-EU nationals travelling to participating European countries for short stays.
EES began its phased introduction on 12 October 2025 and became fully operational on 10 April 2026.
The system records relevant travel document details, entry and exit dates, and biometric information to help identify overstays and strengthen border security.
What does EES mean for travellers?
Eligible travellers may be required to provide a facial image and fingerprints when crossing an external Schengen-area border. The process depends on the traveller's circumstances and the applicable border procedures.
On subsequent visits, border authorities can check information already stored in the system. Travellers may still be asked to verify or provide biometric information again.
EES does not apply to everyone. Certain travellers, including EU citizens and some residence permit holders, are exempt under the applicable rules.
How long is EES information retained?
EES entry and exit records are generally retained for three years. Different retention rules may apply to individual files in specific circumstances.
This retention period should not be confused with a guarantee that biometric registration remains valid for three years or that travellers will never need to provide biometric information again.
EES registration does not guarantee faster border processing or admission into a country. Travellers must continue to comply with all applicable entry requirements.
For further information, visit the official EES website.
What should travellers do before travelling?
Before departure, travellers should:
Check the latest ETIAS requirements and launch announcements through official EU channels.
Confirm whether their nationality and travel circumstances require an ETIAS authorisation.
Allow extra time for border checks, particularly when travelling during busy periods.
Ensure their passport and other required travel documents are valid.
Check the entry requirements for their destination, including any applicable exemptions.
Important: ETIAS and EES are separate systems. EES records eligible travellers' border crossings, while ETIAS is a travel authorisation requirement for eligible visa-exempt visitors. Travellers should check the official EU websites for the latest rules before departure.