EES Launch Delayed and FCDO Advice Updated

It may come as no surprise to some that the EES launch date has recently been delayed. In response, the FCDO has issued new advice to travellers and many are encouraging travel businesses to share this important advice and delay schedule with uninformed customers.  

The EU’s Entry-Exit System (EES) was due to launch soon, but the EES launch has this week been set back to October 2025. The launch was delayed from November 2024 due to a lack of proper technology required to implement the fingerprint and face scanning involved. 

The EES launch will initially cause delays to immigration, which the EU has warned of. This will also mean that any passport-holder entering the region will need to log their fingerprint and face scans in order to enter. 

This does mean, however, that only that information will be required when crossing borders, making entry and exit times faster in the long term. 

This news is coming alongside a further delay to the Etias system, which is also lacking the proper technology. Both of these have affected FCDO advice to travellers, and will require a grace period when implemented.

The Foreign Office stated, “EES registration will replace the current system of manually stamping passports when visitors arrive in the EU.   

“EES is expected to start in October 2025. It is not currently in operation. The European Union will inform about the specific start date of the EES before its launch. 

“When EES is introduced, you will need to create a digital record on your first visit to the Schengen area at the port or airport on arrival. You will be required to submit your fingerprints and have your photo taken at dedicated booths. 

“You will not need to provide any information before travelling to a Schengen area country. 

“If you are flying to a country in the Schengen area, you may experience longer queue times when you arrive at your destination. 

“At some ports and international stations (Dover, Eurotunnel and St Pancras), there may be increased wait times while EES registration is completed before passengers leave the UK.  If you are travelling through one of these stations, you should check with your travel operator to find out whether EES will affect your journey. 

“Your digital record is valid for three years. If you enter the Schengen area again during this time, you will only need to provide a fingerprint or photo at the border, when you enter and exit.”

They also added, “When Etias is introduced, you will need to apply for authorisation to enter Schengen area countries if using a UK passport. You will need to provide personal information and details about your trip, and pay a €7 fee, as part of the authorisation process.” 

The FCDO advice reflected this and advised all travellers, “If you are travelling through one of these stations, you should check with your travel operator to find out whether EES will affect your journey.” 

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