What's ESS and what does it mean to me?

The Entry/Exit System (EES) is the EU’s electronic border control system for recording when non-EU travellers enter and leave the EU and Schengen zone countries. It’s now fully in place, so entries and exits are recorded electronically.

EES is now fully in place, but the border process may still vary depending on the airport, country you’re travelling through and how busy the airport is. During very busy periods, local border authorities may adjust checks, so the process may be different from one airport to another. This means:

• You may, or may not, be asked to provide biometric data
• In some cases, your passport may still be stamped

What’s changed?

Once your EES record has been created, your entry and exit will usually be recorded electronically on future trips rather than by stamping your passport. This means your details will be stored in a secure EU database when you cross the border.

What do I need to do before travel?

Nothing new – just travel as you normally would.

If you’re travelling to Portugal or Sweden, you may be able to complete the entry questionnaire before you travel using the Travel to Europe mobile app. This may help speed up the process at border control.

What happens when I arrive?

The first time you travel under the new system, you may spend a little longer at border control. This is because your biometric data will be collected. This includes a photo of your face and four fingerprints.

You may experience longer queues at busier airports, especially during peak travel times.

• Once your EES record has been created, future trips should be quicker
• Children under 12 won’t need to give fingerprints

If you’ve pre‑booked special assistance, you may also experience some additional waiting time while EES checks are completed. Airport staff will continue to support you, but border checks are carried out by local authorities.

On the day of travel, in case there are any delays, carry any essential medication in your hand luggage. Bringing extra water can also help make your airport journey more comfortable.

Your return trip

·       If you’re travelling on a flight-only booking, please allow extra time at the airport before your flight

·       If you're on a package holiday, we’ll make sure your transfer gets you to the airport in good time

·       After checking in your luggage, please go straight to border control

·       During busy times, there might be queues at border control

Want to know more?

You can find out more details on the UK Government website or visit the official EU EES site.

Watch the official Home Office video about EES