Are you traveling to Europe? Here's what you need to know about EES and ETIAS
Big changes are coming to European travel from October 12th 2025. Over the next two years, the European Union is rolling out two major border systems designed to modernize entry procedures, improve security, and make travel more efficient in the long run.
What's changing?
1. Entry/Exit System (EES)
- Launch date: 12 October 2025 - Applies to: Non-EU citizens crossing the borders of 29 European countries (including Schengen Area states). - What it does: Replaces passport stamping with an automated system that records when and where travelers enter and leave Europe. It will capture basic details like name, travel documents, biometric data (fingerprints and facial images), and entry/exit records.
2. European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS)
- Expected start: late 2026 (TBC) - Applies to: Visa-exempt travelers visiting 30 European countries. - What it does: Similar to the U.S. ESTA, ETIAS will require travelers to apply online before travel, with a fee, to get pre-authorization.
Why is this happening?
The EU wants to:
- Strengthen border security. - Reduce inadmissible cases (people arriving without the right documents). - Speed up border checks in the long run by automating processes.
What this means for travelers
New border checks from October 2025: - Expect longer waits at border crossings, especially in the early months as systems are tested and travelers adjust. - During the length of the progressive period (180 days, starting October 12th), authorities will be recording the entry/exit within the new systems, but also stamping passports. - The fully digital recording of entry/exits will only happen after the end of the progressive period.
Airline checks before departure: Starting April 2026, airlines will need to verify your EES status before you board flights to Europe. This could mean extra document checks at the airport.
Future pre-travel requirement: From late 2026, most visa-exempt travelers (e.g., from the U.S., U.K., Canada, Australia, etc.) will also need an ETIAS approval before flying.
What Travel Agents should know
- The rollout of EES will be progressive over 180 days (each country sets its own schedule), giving time to adapt. - You should prepare to update passenger communications and adjust IT and operational processes in case any changes are required.
How to stay informed
Travelers can view the latest information about EES on the official EES website: https://travel-europe.europa.eu/ees
Travelers can view the latest information about ETIAS on the official ETIAS website: https://travel-europe.europa.eu/etias