EU's Updated Border Control System: Travelers' Guidelines on Visas, Insurance, and Potential Delays
The European Union's Entry-Exit System (EES) and European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) are set to revolutionise border control for British travellers visiting the Schengen Area.
Starting from October 2025, the EES will replace the traditional passport stamping process with a digital biometric registration system. Upon arrival at Schengen borders, UK citizens will be required to provide fingerprints and a photo for biometric data collection, a process that may increase wait times at borders. However, it is important to note that the EES does not require any additional fees to be paid at the border.
From late 2026, British passport holders will also need to obtain ETIAS travel authorisation prior to their journey. This electronic travel pre-screening system aims to enhance security and border management, similar to the U.S. ESTA.
Contrary to some speculations, the introduction of these systems has no connection to Brexit. The EES was planned before the UK's exit from the EU, and the EES does not change entry requirements for British travellers to the EU and Schengen area.
Regarding travel insurance and visas, EES and ETIAS do not mandate travel insurance for British travellers, and the requirements for these remain dependent on individual countries' rules or personal arrangements. ETIAS authorisation applies to short stays (up to 90 days) and does not replace a visa if one is otherwise required. British travellers usually do not need a visa for short tourism or business visits to Schengen states but should check specific country rules if staying longer or for other purposes.
Data privacy is another concern raised by these digital systems. The EES collects biometric and travel data to monitor entries and exits, prevent overstays, and combat identity fraud. Travelers’ details are stored in these EU systems for border security purposes. The EU insists that the system complies with GDPR standards and data protection laws to safeguard travelers' information.
In summary, British travellers should be aware of the upcoming EES and ETIAS systems to avoid delays or travel disruptions in Europe. The UK will also introduce its own border control system, the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), from April 2025. The EES system will not track other personal information and details, such as activities and daily movements within the EU. British travellers do not need to prove their travel insurance under the EES, and they do not need to apply for a new visa when the EES system is implemented. The EES data will be governed by strict EU data protection regulations with clear limits on access, how long it can be held for, and its use.
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