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EU has now officially launched the Entry/Exit System (EES) for Third Country Nationals (TCNs) from 12th October 2025. This regulation will have an implementation period of 6 months. The travel and trade fraternity have mixed reactions of its smooth application. Read on to find out more…
For airports, this means managing new passenger flows
Andy Smith, Director, Borders at SITA, said: “The introduction of the EU Entry/Exit System (EES) marks one of the biggest operational changes at Europe’s air borders in decades. Border officers now need to collect biometric data, check passports, and register Third Country Nationals (TCNs) directly into a central EU system. For airports, this means managing new passenger flows and making sure these checks don’t cause longer queues or missed connections, especially at peak times.
Every Member State must follow the same EU border management regulations, operational guidance from Frontex, and technical standards set by eu-LISA. This ensures that the right data is captured securely and that national systems can talk to the EU’s central database. It’s a complex transition that requires preparation, coordination, and reliable EES technology to keep things moving smoothly.
Phased EES rollout may help reduce pressure
The EU’s phased EES rollout may help reduce pressure in the early days, but it also creates uncertainty. Not all European airports will switch on at the same time, and passengers, airlines, and airports need clear information to plan accordingly. Communicating rollout plans early and clearly, and encouraging the use of EES pre-registration apps where available, will be key to minimizing confusion and ensuring smoother journeys.
Workable solutions on the ground needed
This is why it’s crucial to work closely with governments and border agencies to translate these rules and best practices into practical, workable solutions on the ground. Our EES border management system, for example, builds on technology developed through partnerships with more than 75 governments worldwide. It connects securely to the EU’s central platform and allows travelers to register their biometrics quickly at self-service kiosks and eGates. This helps reduce queues for passengers and frees up border officers to focus on the checks that matter most.
Biometric border checks
The EU Entry/Exit System is also part of a broader global shift towards biometric border checks. By preparing early, using proven technology, and communicating clearly with the entire travel ecosystem, governments can reduce disruption while enhancing security. Our role is to support them every step of the way.”
ABTA calls for countries to expand the use of egates and adopt the EES
New data from ABTA – The Travel Association reveals 61% of people due to travel to Europe over the next 12 months are already aware of the introduction of EU Entry/Exit System1.
ABTA says that 61% is an encouraging level for the launch day of a scheme which will take some six months to be fully introduced. However, ABTA also believes that there needs to be a continued and concerted effort across the travel industry to continue to make people aware of the changes, particularly as the phasing in means people’s individual travel experiences will vary over the next six months.
The Association says people should pay careful attention to any information provided by their travel company and transport provider, about when they should arrive at airports or ports.
Delays at peak travel times
Mark Tanzer, Chief Executive of ABTA – The Travel Association said: “In the longer term, EES should make processes quicker and simpler for travel to Europe.
“Looking at the short term, given the scale of the operation, there may be some delays, particularly at peak travel times. But countries will be stepping up their processes gradually and have the option to stand down the system to avoid significant and lengthy waiting times. We ask that countries remain vigilant and use this contingency measure where needed.
“In the future, once EES is fully rolled out, no passport stamping will be needed and the system may also allow more places to extend the use of egates to UK citizens. Currently, not every country in Europe allows UK travellers to use these, so we’re urging more countries to allow access to egates. It’s good that many places are already doing so, as was my experience travelling through Palma airport this week.
App for EES in the future
“There is also the option for countries to use an app for EES in the future, which would allow travellers to enter information in advance; we urge all countries involved in EES to look to introduce the app.
“Increasing access to egates and using the EES app will make passport control checks quicker, helping both travellers and border authorities.
“If you have booked a holiday through an ABTA travel company, you can feel reassured that they understand the system and can advise you in advance of your travels.”
Travellers should now allocate four hours for navigating the new system in Southern Europe
Julia Lo Bue-Said OBE, CEO of Advantage Travel Partnership, stated: “As EES comes into force this Sunday, non-EU travellers, including the majority of British Citizens, will be mandated to register their biometric details upon both arrival and departure from the Schengen area. This will include fingerprints, photographs, and the provision of information on their reasoning for visiting the EU. It will be implemented gradually over the next six months, however, for major airports in Southern Europe, we recommend that travellers now allocate four hours for navigating the new system in these initial stages as well as ensuring they have all the relevant documents prepared ahead of time in order to have a smooth journey.
Travellers should consider off-peak times
Where possible, travellers should consider off-peak times as this should reduce the likelihood of delays. Furthermore, delays should be anticipated for flights arriving at the same time to these travel hubs, as we foresee potentially overwhelming volumes of travellers during the initial rollout phase. This should settle over the next few weeks as staff and travellers familiarise themselves with the new procedures. Those travelling via the Eurostar at Kings Cross St Pancras may be affected by delays due to the implementation of automated kiosks to check-in for journeys and the Port of Dover is continuing to expand its kiosk provisions which it will roll out to try to avoid delays. We strongly advise travellers to consult with their travel agents in advance concerning any potential apprehensions.”
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Source: traveldailymedia