The global immigration landscape is undergoing a major digital shift. Both the European Union and the United Kingdom are introducing new systems to modernize border control, enhance security, and streamline travel. Here’s what you need to know about the EU’s Entry/Exit System (EES) and European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), as well as the UK’s Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) and eVisa rollout.

EU Entry/Exit System (EES): Launching 12 October 2025

The EES will replace manual passport stamping with a fully digital system that records the entry and exit of non-EU nationals visiting the Schengen Area for short stays (up to 90 days in any 180-day period). It applies to both visa-exempt travellers and those with short-stay visas.

Key features

• Launch date: 12 October 2025, with a phased rollout across 29 Schengen countries over six months, completing by April 2026.
• Biometric data: First-time travellers will provide a live facial image and four fingerprints at self-service kiosks or manned desks. Children under 12 are exempt from fingerprinting.
• Data retention: Records are stored for three years (or five years if there is an overstay).
• Impact: Expect longer queues initially, especially at busy airports and ports. Once enrolled, future crossings will be faster.

Who is affected?

• Nationals of countries outside the EU/Schengen Area, including UK citizens post-Brexit.
• Residents and holders of long-stay visas are exempt but should carry proof of status.

Preparation tips

• Arrive early for your first trip after 12 October.
• Carry supporting documents such as proof of accommodation and return tickets.
• Stay informed via official EU and national border authority updates.

ETIAS: Coming in late 2026, mandatory by 2027

The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) is a pre-travel screening requirement for visa-exempt travellers to the Schengen Area.

Timeline

• Operational: Last quarter of 2026.
• Mandatory: April 2027 for most travellers, with full enforcement by October 2027 after transitional and grace periods.

What it involves

• Online application before travel.
• Fee of approximately EUR7–EUR20 (final amount to be confirmed).
• Valid for three years or until passport expiry.
• Similar to the U.S. ESTA system.

Important: ETIAS is not a visa; it is a travel authorization for short stays.

UK digital immigration: ETA and eVisas

As a reminder, the UK has already undergone digitisation this year. This was covered in our earlier article this year.

Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)

• Introduced: April 2025 for non-visa nationals (e.g., U.S., Canada, EU countries).
• Cost: £16, valid for multiple trips over two years or until passport expiry.
• Application: Via the UK ETA app or GOV.UK; most approvals within minutes.

eVisa rollout

• Full Transition: From 15 July 2025, all new UK visa holders receive only an eVisa; physical documents like BRPs and vignettes are being phased out.
• What Is an eVisa? A secure digital record of immigration status linked to your passport and accessible via a UKVI account.
• Benefits: Cannot be lost or stolen, easier to share with employers/landlords, and faster border checks.
• Action Required: Existing visa holders must create a UKVI account and link their status before the final deadline (currently under review, but physical documents will no longer be accepted after 2025).

How to Prepare for These Changes

• For EU Travel:
  • Check if your destination is in the Schengen Area.
  • Allow extra time for border checks during the EES rollout.
  • Monitor ETIAS updates and apply once the system goes live.
• For UK Travel or Residency:
  • If you are a visa holder, set up your UKVI account and link your eVisa now.
  • Non-visa nationals should apply for an ETA before travel.

Final Thoughts

These changes mark a significant step toward fully digital immigration systems in Europe and the UK. While they promise greater security and efficiency, travellers should plan ahead to avoid delays. Businesses, especially those managing frequent travel for employees, should update their compliance processes accordingly.

By: Hamza Malik and Saskia MacLaughlin

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