EU’s New Entry/Exit System: What London Travellers Need to Know

September 10, 2025

If you’re planning a trip to Europe from London this autumn, there’s a big change at the border you need to know about. From 12 October 2025, the EU will begin rolling out its new Entry/Exit System (EES). It’s designed to improve security and eventually make travel smoother — but at first, it may mean longer queues at ports and train stations.

What is EES?
The Entry/Exit System is a digital way for the EU to record when non-EU citizens enter and leave the Schengen Area. It replaces the old system of passport stamps.

For UK travellers, this includes many popular destinations like France, Spain, Portugal, Italy, and Greece.

How it works
On your first trip after 12 October, you’ll need to:

Scan your passport at a kiosk
Provide fingerprints and have your photo taken
Answer a few short questions about your trip

This will be done before you board if you’re using:

Eurostar (London St Pancras)
Eurotunnel (Folkestone)
Ferries from Dover

At airports, registration will be done when you land in Europe.

Children under 12 won’t need to give fingerprints.

How long is it valid?
Once registered, your details are stored for three years. On later trips, checks will be much quicker.

What to expect in London

Eurostar has installed 49 new kiosks at St Pancras
Eurotunnel has added over 100 kiosks at each terminal
Dover will use kiosks, but can temporarily return to manual passport stamping if queues get too long

Concerns about queues
Because the process takes longer the first time, there are concerns about delays - especially at Dover and St Pancras, where space is limited. Travellers are advised to allow extra time during the rollout.

Looking ahead: ETIAS
In 2026, the EU will also launch ETIAS — a visa waiver system. UK citizens will need to apply online before travel, costing €20 for three years.

Bottom line
If you’re travelling to Europe from London after 12 October, be ready for the new EES checks. Build in extra time, especially for Eurostar, Eurotunnel, and Dover ferries. Once you’re registered, though, your next trips will be much smoother.