UK tourists will be hit by a European Union travel change on their next holiday - after a shake-up this month. UK holidaymakers face a change when flying to Spain, France and Italy and more.
T he European Union is bringing in a new system for British travellers heading to Europe - or more specifically, the Schengen area. That's the zone covering 29 European countries, including France, Spain, Italy, Greece, Germany and Portugal, where you can move freely between borders.
The change is being rolled out in stages over the next six months, starting with something called the EU Entry/Exit System, or EES. It replaces the old way of stamping passports when you arrive or leave. From now on, it's all digital - an electronic record instead of an ink stamp.
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The EU said: "The new Entry/Exit System (EES) will start operations on 12 October 2025. European countries using the EES will introduce the system gradually at their external borders.
"This means that data collection will be gradually introduced at border crossing points with full implementation by 10 April 2026."
The EU adds: "The Entry/Exit System (EES) will be deployed gradually across the external borders of the 29 European countries over a period of 6 months. These European countries will introduce the different elements of the EES in phases, including the collection of biometric data, such as facial image and fingerprints.
"This means that travellers' biometric data (facial image and fingerprints) might not be collected at every border crossing point right away, and their personal information may not be registered in the system. Passports will continue to be stamped as usual.
"This progressive implementation will last until 9 April 2026. From 10 April 2026, the EES will be fully operational at all external border crossing points of the European countries using the system."
To avoid unnecessary delays, ensure you have all the correct documents and any required visas well in advance of your departure.
The key to avoiding any pitfalls with the new system is preparation. This includes checking the date on your passport and having the correct paperwork and required visas to hand. As the EES system is automated, it will track your entry and exit dates and can also refuse entry, so keep an eye on your eligibility to stay and avoid overstaying your welcome in the Schengen area.
With the right planning, the system should make travel smoother and safer in the long run. However, understanding these changes in advance will help to avoid any unnecessary stress and help manage any initial teething problems.
While travel insurance is not mandatory, securing a policy that is specifically tailored to your needs offers valuable financial protection for both you and your holiday investment.
Some reports indicate that you may be asked about travel insurance at border control. If you don't have travel insurance, you could risk being referred to a border control officer for further inspection.