Else Beekman
The European Union’s long-awaited biometric border control system, known as the Entry/Exit System (EES), is now expected to roll out in October 2025. After multiple delays, EU member states have agreed to a phased introduction of the new system. This will replace the traditional passport stamping process for non-EU nationals.
The EES was originally scheduled to launch in November 2023 but was postponed due to several countries being unprepared. Under the new agreement—pending approval from the European Parliament—the system will be introduced gradually over a six-month period.
“We are aiming for an October rollout,” stated Polish Interior Minister Tomasz Siemoniak, whose country currently holds the EU’s rotating presidency. However, the European Commission will still need to confirm the final start date.
How will the rollout work?
The EES implementation will occur in two stages. In Phase One (2025), member states will be required to have the system operational at 50% of border-crossing points within three months, with full coverage expected by the six-month mark. Thereafter, in Phase Two (2026), an electronic visa waiver system for non-EU visitors, including tourists, will be introduced. This introduction will follow at least six months after EES goes live.
What is the EES?
First approved in 2017, the EES is an automated system designed to record entry and exit dates of non-EU visitors. It will also track overstays and refusals of entry, aiming to strengthen border security and streamline immigration procedures. Under the new system, travellers entering or leaving the EU or Schengen Area will have their personal and biometric data recorded. This will include facial images and fingerprints. However, it will not apply to travel between Schengen countries, such as Spain and Germany.
Concerns over travel disruptions
Despite its intended benefits, the EES rollout has raised concerns about potential travel disruptions. London Mayor Sadiq Khan previously warned that the system could cause “chaos” at St Pancras International, the Eurostar terminal in the UK capital. Similarly, officials at the Port of Dover expressed fears of long queues and delays for passengers using ferries to France.
Who is affected?
- Non-EU nationals visiting the EU and Schengen Area will be required to register their biometric details.
- Non-EU nationals who hold residency in an EU country will not be subject to EES requirements.
- Travel between Schengen countries will not be affected by the new system.
Impact on Brits in Spain
Important Note for Green Certificate Holders
The non-biometric Green Certificate, while still a valid residency document in Spain, predates Brexit. Consequently, the EU did not include it in the Withdrawal Agreement. As a result, holders of Green Certificates may not be exempt from EES registration and risk facing delays and difficulties at borders, especially in other EU countries.
The British Embassy strongly advises anyone still using a Green Certificate to obtain a TIE card as soon as possible before the EES launch this autumn to avoid potential travel disruptions.
British Residents in Spain
For Brits who live in or frequently travel to Spain, the EES has different implications depending on their residency status. If you are a British citizen with a valid Spanish residency permit (such as a TIE card), you are exempt from the EES. This means you will not need to register biometric data when entering or leaving Spain. However, visitors from the UK—such as friends or family—will be required to comply with the system.
British tourists and second-home owners
If you are a UK citizen who does not reside in Spain but frequently visits for holidays or to stay in a second home, you will be subject to the new rules:
- Biometric registration required: On your first entry into the Schengen Zone after EES goes live, travel authorities will record your facial image and fingerprints.
- Stricter enforcement of the 90/180-day rule: The system will automatically track your days in the Schengen Zone, making it harder to overstay the 90-day limit in any 180-day period.
- Possible delays at border crossings: The new process may increase waiting times at airports, ferry ports, and Eurostar terminals, especially in the early months of implementation.
Frequent travellers between the UK and Spain
If you travel regularly between the UK and Spain for work or other commitments, be aware that:
- More rigid checks may occur when entering and exiting the Schengen Area.
- Potential errors in exit records: If your departure is not correctly recorded, it could cause issues for future entries.
UK launches its own entry system
Meanwhile, the UK has introduced its own version of an electronic entry system, the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). As of 2 April 2025, the ETA will be mandatory for travellers from the EU, EEA, and Switzerland. This excludes Irish passport holders. The system is already in place for non-EU visitors entering the UK.
What happens next?
With the October launch date in sight, EU member states must now work to ensure the system is operational at key border crossings. While the EES promises increased efficiency and security, travel authorities expect the transition period to bring some travel challenges. For those planning trips to or from the EU, staying informed on the latest updates will be essential.
Also read: Understanding Spain’s 90-Day Rule and how a smart tool can help