New entry system in the EU: This is how the changes affect Brits!

New entry system in the EU: This is how the changes affect Brits!

From October 12, 2023, a new digital entry and exit system (EES) will be introduced in Europe, applicable to all non-EU citizens, including British citizens. This system will be gradually implemented in all participating countries by April 9, 2026. The measure aims to improve control at the external borders of the Schengen area and combat crime by ensuring that the 90-day stay limit is complied with within 180 days. The EES replaces the manual stamping of passports with a biometric process that captures fingerprints and photos, enabling faster processing at borders.

The new system will be implemented at all international airports in Austria and other Schengen countries. Traveler registration can be done both at self-service kiosks and via mobile apps. For children under 12, a simple photo is enough to register, while adults must provide their biometric data. The EES dossier, in which the collected data is stored, remains valid for three years and simplifies future border crossings for registered travelers as only the stored data needs to be verified.

Introduction and implementation of the EES

The EES is being rolled out not only in Austria, but also in other EU countries, including Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Denmark, Germany, France and many more. In Austria, data collection is carried out at international airports such as Vienna-Schwechat and Salzburg. Travelers are asked not to make any special preparations before their trip as the new procedures will be automated at all ports of entry. Some countries such as Estonia and the Czech Republic are already well prepared for the introduction of the EES.

The system applies to all third-country nationals who travel for shorter stays without a residence permit requiring a visa. Travelers arriving with an electronic passport can use the self-service gates to make their border crossing even faster. It is important to allow extra time for border controls to avoid possible delays.

Additional information: ETIAS

In addition to the EES, the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) will be introduced in 2026. ETIAS requires online registration for a “Euro Visa” before travel, which incurs a cost of £17.30 (or €20). This visa-like document remains valid for up to three years as long as the passport does not expire. People under 18 or over 70 are exempt from the fee.

For millions of British travelers, the introduction of the EES and the upcoming ETIAS system represents a significant change to the travel process. They must adapt to the new biological detection systems and ensure that they provide all necessary documents and registrations in a timely manner. Additional information on the visa requirement and the new travel procedures is available on the official websites of the relevant authorities.