If you are younger than 50, you might have previously taken hassle-free trips to Europe for granted.
In the 1970s, the burgeoning foreign package holiday industry began to flourish. Instead of a rainy week at Butlins in Bognor, people were enjoying sunburn and sangria in Spain!
During the UK’s membership in the European Economic Community (EEC) from 1973, citizens had the freedom to travel within the European Union. The Schengen agreement in 1985 further eased travel restrictions for certain European citizens within the ‘Schengen Area.’
However, this changed on December 31, 2020, when the UK officially exited the EU. Consequently, traveling between the UK and many European nations is expected to become more complex.
Starting October 12, 2025, travelers will need to provide additional identification information when moving to or between Schengen zone countries. The Schengen Area includes EU countries, Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway, excluding Ireland and Cyprus.
Although the changes are minor, lack of awareness about the new regulations could lead to delays at border crossings as individuals realize they must provide extra biometric and personal data for entry.
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The EU Entry/Exit System (EES) is a new process that will record traveler details for entry into the EU. Travelers will need to register their name, travel documents, and biometric data, such as fingerprints and facial images. This system aims to expedite travel between countries and eliminate the need for passport stamps.
European, EEA, and Swiss citizens have already been required to obtain an electronic travel authorisation (ETA) since April 2, 2025, to enter the UK, except for Irish citizens.
Travelers must provide EES data on their initial trip to the EU after its implementation. Delays are anticipated at ports, with an estimated additional 10 minutes per person for processing in cars. Airports and key departure points, like the Eurostar terminal, are also expected to experience increased border control activity.
Although objections may arise at border crossings, compliance with the EES requirements is mandatory. Data collection will occur at the ‘border crossing point for the first time,’ either in the UK or the visiting country.
While the EES rollout may cause initial delays, the process should streamline over time. Ports and terminals have had ample preparation time for the system’s introduction.
Cruises are exempt from EES requirements unless passengers choose to disembark in Schengen countries. However, travelers disembarking will need to undergo the EES process.
Advanced registration for EES data is not currently available. Delays are expected initially, but efficiency is projected to improve gradually.
The introduction of the ETIAS system will also impact travel to Europe. The ETIAS will require a €20 fee and pre-approval for citizens of non-EU nations, including the UK, entering 30 European countries.
Applying for ETIAS in advance is advisable to avoid potential delays in approval, which could extend to 14 days in certain circumstances.
Ensuring accurate details on the approved ETIAS is essential to avoid border entry issues. The system’s implementation has been postponed, with the latest timeline set for the final quarter of 2026.
Travelers should stay informed
