New EU Entry/Exit System (EES) to be introduced this winter

Skiers and snowboarders heading to Europe this winter will be among the first to use the new Entry/Exit System (EES) when they cross the border.

The EES is a new digital border control system replacing ‘wet’ passport stamping for non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals, which post-Brexit includes Brits.

Data including your name, passport number, fingerprints, facial image and entry/exit dates will be stored for up to three years.

Launch in autumn 2025

The EES rollout was originally planned for November 2024, but will start on 12 October 2025.

There will be a phased rollout across Schengen-area borders, with full implementation scheduled to be in place by 10 April 2026. At this point passport stamps will be completely phased out.

What to expect

Once the EES has launched, on your first visit to the Schengen/EU area you will be required to provide fingerprints and a facial photo at entry points via kiosks.

After that first entry (and during the three years after), you may need to supply a single biometric verification (fingerprint or photo).

It’s worth noting that children under 12 are exempt from fingerprinting but will still require a facial image.

Ferry, Eurotunnel and Eurostar Departures

While EES checks for those arriving by plane will take place in the destination country, Dover, Folkestone and London St Pancras will all host their own pre-departure checks, with EES checks taking place on UK soil.

It seems likely this will mean you will need to allow extra time for pre-departure checks. Travellers may need to exit their vehicle to complete biometric checks, which could add around five minutes per vehicle, with longer delays possible during peak periods.

Advice on ski holidays this winter

If you’d like impartial advice on choosing your ski holiday for this winter, please contact the Chaletline team on 01822 617761

EES Summary Details