Last updated: 26 October 2026
Travelling from Dover to Europe? Find out how the EU Entry/Exit System (EES) affects ferry passengers, what to expect at the border, and how to prepare for your journey.
What is the Entry/Exit System (EES)?
The Entry/Exit System (EES) is the European Union’s digital border management system for registering eligible non-EU nationals travelling to participating Schengen countries for short stays.
The system records relevant travel and passport details, along with biometric information such as a facial image and fingerprints where required. It is designed to help authorities register entries and exits and identify overstays.
The EES began its phased introduction on 12 October 2025 and became fully operational on 10 April 2026.
For a broader explanation of the EES, ETIAS and how these systems affect travel to Europe, read our ETIAS and EES: Travel Guidelines for Visiting Europe.
How does EES work at the Port of Dover?
At the Port of Dover, French border checks take place before passengers leave the UK. EES checks are carried out at the port’s designated processing facilities in the Western Docks.
The procedure depends on your passenger type and travel arrangements. Foot passengers, for example, must follow the port’s designated check-in and transfer procedure rather than automatically travelling directly to the Western Docks.
Foot passengers should follow their ferry operator’s check-in instructions at the Eastern Docks and use the designated transfer arrangements to reach the EES processing facility. Other passengers should follow the directions provided by their operator and the port.
After the required checks have been completed, passengers continue through the relevant border procedures before boarding their ferry.
For the latest instructions, consult the Port of Dover’s official EES procedure for foot passengers and your ferry operator’s guidance.
Who needs to complete EES checks?
EES generally applies to eligible non-EU nationals travelling to participating Schengen countries for short stays, including many UK passport holders.
Exemptions apply to certain travellers, including some people who hold qualifying residence permits or other eligible documents. Requirements depend on your nationality, residence status and travel circumstances.
British passport holders should not assume that every passenger is subject to identical requirements. Check the official guidance before travelling.
For further information, visit the UK government’s Entry/Exit System guidance.
What should passengers expect?
Depending on their circumstances and whether they have previously registered, eligible travellers may be asked to:
Present their passport and provide relevant travel information.
Have a facial image taken.
Provide fingerprints, where required.
Complete additional checks with border officials.
Some travellers may be able to verify information already recorded in the system, while others may need to complete registration procedures.
Completing EES checks does not guarantee entry into the Schengen Area. Travellers must still meet the applicable entry requirements.
Our recommendations for travelling through Dover
To help make your journey as smooth as possible, we recommend the following:
Check the latest instructions before departure. Review the Port of Dover’s guidance and your ferry operator’s updates, as procedures may differ depending on your travel arrangements.
Allow extra time for your journey. EES registration and border checks may add time to the departure process, particularly during busy travel periods. Follow your operator’s advice about when to arrive.
Keep your travel documents accessible. Have your valid passport and any other required documents ready when requested.
Be prepared for biometric checks. Eligible travellers may need to provide a facial image and fingerprints, depending on their circumstances and previous registration.
Follow signs and staff instructions. Go to the designated check-in point and follow directions from port staff and your ferry operator. Do not travel directly to the Western Docks unless you are specifically instructed to do so.
Check whether any exemptions apply to you. EES requirements vary according to nationality and residence status. Consult official guidance if you are unsure whether you need to register.
Check the rules again before travelling. Border procedures and official instructions may change, so use current guidance rather than relying solely on information from an earlier trip.
Useful links and further information
Important information
This article provides general travel guidance and does not replace official border instructions. The procedures that apply to you may depend on your nationality, residence status, passenger type and travel arrangements.
We review this information periodically, but requirements and procedures may change. Before departure, always check the latest guidance from the Port of Dover, your ferry operator and the relevant government authorities.