EES and ETIAS: New systems for entering Schengen

Understand how the Entry/Exit System and European Travel Information and Authorisation System affect short Schengen trips — especially for UK passport holders.

Run eligibility check

Follow official sources only for ETIAS; beware of fake application websites.

Do not pay fake ETIAS websites

ETIAS is not open for applications yet. Avoid unofficial sites asking for payment. Use only official EU channels once applications launch.

What is EES?

The Entry/Exit System (EES) is not a visa. It is an automated border system that records biometric entry and exit data for short stays in the Schengen area.

Fingerprint and facial image may be captured at the border.
Passport stamps are gradually replaced by digital records.
Applies to non-EU nationals on short stays, including many visa-exempt travellers.

What is ETIAS?

ETIAS is not a visa. It is a travel authorisation for visa-exempt visitors, similar in concept to systems used elsewhere.

Expected to be required before travel once live.
According to the EU, launch is planned for the last quarter of 2026.
Applications are not open yet — do not pay unofficial websites.

How does this affect UK citizens?

UK passport holders are often visa-exempt for short Schengen tourism or business trips, but separate border-system rules still apply.

EES biometric registration may apply at Schengen borders.
ETIAS will likely be required for visa-exempt UK nationals once active.
Always confirm the latest official guidance before you travel.

Who is affected?

Non-EU nationals who are visa-exempt for short Schengen stays are the primary audience for ETIAS. EES covers a broader set of third-country travellers entering the Schengen area for short stays.

When is it required?

EES rollout is already underway at many Schengen borders. ETIAS is not active yet; the EU indicates applications should open before mandatory use begins.

How Passula tracks this

Passula flags EES and ETIAS considerations in Schengen Smart Preview for relevant routes, adds preparation checklist items for UK passport holders, and will surface official application status when ETIAS goes live.

Check your route in Smart Preview