EES Travel | EES Travel Rules For Europe

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EES Travel Updates

You might have heard that the entry requirements for both the EU and the UK have changed.

The new Entry/Exit System (EES) became operational on 12 October 2025, however European countries that are using the EES are introducing the system gradually at their borders. This means that data collection will be gradually introduced at entry and exit points, with full implementation expected to be by 10 April 2026.

Although these changes are still rolling out, we have been committed to making the transition as smooth as possible for our customers.

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Understanding the EU Entry Exist Scheme

As of 12 October 2025, the EU introduced the Entry Exit Scheme (EES), a digital border system that replaces traditional passport stamping for non-EU nationals.

This EES travel system is designed to streamline crossings and improve security across 29 European countries.

What is the Entry Exist Scheme (EES)?

The Entry Exit Scheme Europe registers all non-EU nationals entering for short stays. The system includes biometric checks, such as facial recognition and fingerprint scanning.

Once registered, your EES travel pass will be valid for up to three years, meaning future trips will only require a quick fingerprint or photo check.

How will the EES affect your journey?

Non-EU travellers using P&O Ferries should factor in additional time for EES travel checks:

On the Dover-Calais route, checks will occur before departure in Dover.
On the Hull-Rotterdam route, checks take place upon arrival in Rotterdam.

Following EES travel rules ensures a smooth journey and helps travellers comply with EU border requirements. Learn more about the Entry Exit System (EES) on the European Union website.

Changes to UK & EU entry requirements

Entering Europe for a short stay

The second upcoming change is the introduction of the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), which is not yet in effect. If you are from a visa-exempt non-EU country, such as the UK, you will need to apply for ETIAS authorisation to enter 30 European countries for short stays. Please note:

A short stay is defined as up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
There is a small application fee, payable to the government. You don’t have to pay the fee if you are under 18 or over 70 years of age.
ETIAS authorisation will last for three years, or until your passport expires – whichever comes first.
It is your responsibility to apply for ETIAS. You will be able to do this online at europa.eu/etias once the scheme begins.

We will inform and remind our customers about the changes when they come into effect, with more details on how to apply for ETIAS authorisation. Find out more on the ETIAS European Union website.

Entering the UK for a short stay

Entry requirements for visitors to the UK are also changing. If you don’t need a visa and you are travelling for a short stay of less than six months, you will need to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) from April 2025.

For example, EU citizens planning a two-week holiday in the UK will need to apply for an ETA before they travel. Please note:

Due to the Common Travel Area, Irish citizens will not need an ETA to enter the UK.
It is your responsibility to apply for ETA. You will be able to do this online or using the ETA app once the scheme begins.
There will be a small fee to apply.
An ETA permits you to travel to the UK multiple times over two years, or until your passport expires – whichever comes first.

We will inform our customers when the UK confirms a start date for all overseas visitors and provide more details on where you can apply. Find out more on the GOV.UK website.

If you are travelling with biometric residence permits (BRPs) and EU Settlement Scheme biometric residence cards (EUSS BRCs), despite them having expired on 31 December 2024, these were accepted as evidence of permission to travel to the UK until and including 1 June 2025. But now, this measure has not been extended again. From 2nd June 2025, all expired BRPs and EUSS BRCs will no longer be acceptable for evidencing permission to travel to the UK.

By ensuring you have all the necessary travel permits before setting sail, you can make your journey easier and more stress-free. Discover more travel information now to ensure a smooth start and finish to your holiday today!

EES Travel Scheme FAQs

1 Do all travellers need an EES travel pass?

Yes, all non-EU nationals travelling to Schengen countries for short stays will need a valid EES travel pass from 12 October 2025. EU citizens do not need an EES for entry, but should follow any additional border requirements as advised.

2 How do EES checks affect my ferry journey?

When travelling with P&O Ferries, EES travel rules mean non-EU passengers will undergo biometric checks. On the Dover-Calais route, this occurs before departure in Dover, whereas on the Hull-Rotterdam route, it happens upon arrival. Passengers should allow extra time when planning their journey, especially since the scheme has just launched, as it may take longer than usual.

3 How long is my EES travel registration valid?

Once registered, your EES travel pass is valid for up to three years. For future trips to Europe during this period, you will only need a quick fingerprint or photo check, making subsequent travel faster and simpler.

EES Entry / Exit System

When travelling with P&O Ferries, EES travel rules mean non-EU passengers will undergo new checks at the border. Find out more below.

Changes to UK & EU entry requirements

EES Travel Scheme FAQs