What is The Entry/Exit System (EES)?

The Entry/Exit System (EES) is an automated IT system for registering non-EU nationals travelling for a short stay up to 90 days, each time they cross the external borders of any Schengen country. 

If you are travelling to a country in the Schengen area for a short stay using a UK passport, you will be required to register your biometric details, such as fingerprints and a photo, when you arrive. You do not need to take any action before you arrive at the border, and there is no cost for EES registration.

EES registration is designed to replace the current system of manually stamping passports when visitors arrive in the EU.  ​ The registration may take each passenger a few extra minutes to complete so be prepared to wait longer than usual at the border once the system starts.

If you have crossed the borders of the European countries using the EES more than once since the EES started on the 12th of October, the photo of your face and/or your fingerprints might already be recorded in the EES. In this case, the passport control officers will only verify your fingerprints and photo, which will take less time.

If you enter the Schengen area through the Port of Dover, Eurotunnel at Folkestone or St Pancras International, EES checks will be completed at the border, before you leave the UK. 

Your digital EES record is valid for 3 years. 

For more information, please visit Entry/Exit System (EES).