09
Sep 2025
An increasing number of UK travelers are aware of the European Union’s (EU) new Entry-Exit System (EES), according to data released by the ABTA – The Travel Association.
The system, which replaces manual passport stamping with electronic registration and biometric checks, is scheduled to launch on October 12th, 2025, nearly a year later than its originally planned debut.
Rising awareness among travelers
More than half of respondents in ABTA’s Holiday Habits research said that they were aware of the upcoming rules, up from 44% in 2024.
Awareness rose to 61% among those who had traveled abroad within the past year, suggesting that frequent travelers are more likely to know that changes are imminent.
Phased rollout across Europe
ABTA Chief Executive Mark Tanzer said that the association supports the EU’s decision to introduce the scheme gradually.
“Launching a new digital border system in 29 countries is no mean feat, and doing it over a six-month period should allow the system to bed in whilst minimizing impact on travelers,” Tanzer said.
He added that spreading implementation across peak periods such as October half-term and Christmas would ease disruption.
Tanzer acknowledged that phased implementation poses communication challenges.
“It’s hard to prepare passengers for a system that they may or may not experience, particularly as, due to security reasons, we’re unlikely to know which borders go live from day one,” he said.
ABTA has published resources to help members explain the process to customers.
(Image courtesy of Akabei via iStock)
How the system works
The new border system will apply to travelers entering and leaving the EU and Schengen Area. It will electronically register each entry and exit, replacing passport stamps with a digital record.
The first time a traveler passes through the system, their passport will be scanned alongside a facial photo and fingerprints. Registration is valid for three years, reducing the need for repeat biometric checks on future trips within that period.
Support for travel providers
ABTA has arranged a video conference with the UK Government’s Cabinet Office and association experts to brief its members. The session will cover the phased introduction and the impact on travelers.
The association has also made online guidance available for its 4,300 member brands, which represent a combined annual UK revenue of more than £40 billion.
The resources are designed to ensure travel agents and tour operators can provide accurate, consistent information to customers as the new system takes effect.
(Image courtesy of Aziz Shamuratov via iStock)
Expected impact on travelers
While awareness has grown, ABTA noted that travelers’ initial experiences of EES will vary significantly depending on the country or specific border they use. Some travelers may encounter only limited changes at first, while others could face the full range of new checks.
Countries that are ready earlier may implement the system ahead of schedule, while authorities can scale back operations if problems arise during rollout.
According to ABTA, the staggered launch provides an opportunity to reduce congestion and technical difficulties as border officials adapt to the new technology. It also allows governments to monitor the system’s effectiveness before full implementation.
Broader EU border management plans
The EES is part of the EU’s broader plan to modernize border management. It will eventually work alongside the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS), which is due to come into effect after EES is established.
Together, the systems are intended to improve security, track overstays, and streamline border crossings for non-EU nationals.
For travelers, the changes represent a significant shift in the way borders are managed when entering Europe. ABTA has emphasized that preparation and communication are critical to limiting disruption as the system comes online.
Travelers are advised to check guidance from travel providers for updates on where and how the system will be in use.
Preparing for the change
The introduction of the EES marks a significant shift in how travelers experience Europe’s borders. Awareness of the new process is growing, yet the phased rollout means many people may see only gradual adjustments at first.
For travelers, the change emphasizes the importance of being informed and prepared, as biometric checks and digital records become part of routine journeys. As the system moves toward full implementation in 2026, it will change border control across Europe and set a new standard for international travel.