As EU border rules change, here’s what British travellers need to know
The way Britons travel to Europe is set to change dramatically in the second half of 2025, with new regulations coming into force that are designed to modernise border security and streamline entry procedures. The two new rules that will have the biggest impact on UK travellers are the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) and the updated Entry/Exit System (EES).
To help you prepare for these changes, Dawn Morwood, Co-Director of Cheap Deals Away, explains the details of these new rules and how they will affect UK travellers.
The Global Trend Toward Digital Borders
Europe’s new travel requirements are part of a broader global movement towards digital security and automated border checks. “Many countries are adopting electronic travel authorisation systems and biometric data collection to enhance security and efficiency,” says Dawn. “These measures aim to reduce identity fraud, prevent visitors from staying too long in a country, and provide more streamlined border experiences.”
While this shift improves overall safety, it also places greater responsibility on travellers to make sure they comply with pre-arrival requirements.
ETIAS: What UK Travellers Must Know
The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) is a mandatory electronic travel authorisation for non-EU passport holders (including UK travellers) visiting any of the 30 participating European countries. It requires an online application before departure, in which travellers are asked to provide details such as their passport information, employment status, and travel history.
- Who Needs It? UK passport holders travelling to Schengen Area countries for short stays (up to 90 days in any 180-day period).
- Application Process: Travellers apply by submitting an online form, with most applications being processed within minutes. Some applications may take up to 30 days if additional information or an interview is required.
- Fees: An ETIAS costs approximately €7 (around £6). Travellers under 18 or over 70 are exempt from paying this fee.
- Validity: Each ETIAS approval is valid for three years, or until the associated passport expires, whichever comes first.
- At The Border: Approval of an ETIAS application does not guarantee entry to a country; border officials may request additional documentation. Travellers should ensure their ETIAS approval matches their passport details exactly to avoid complications at the border.
- Urgent Travel Considerations: While most ETIAS applications are approved quickly, those needing to travel at the last minute should apply as early as possible to account for potential processing delays.
The Entry/Exit System (EES) And Biometric Data
“The EES is another major shift, replacing manual passport stamping with an automated digital record of entries and exits for non-EU travellers,” says Dawn. “This system will collect biometric data, including fingerprints and facial images, to track visa-free and visa-required stays.”
- Who’s Affected? All UK visitors entering Schengen countries for short stays.
- What’s Changing? Travellers will undergo biometric scanning at border crossings, requiring them to provide fingerprints and facial images at kiosks or with border officers.
- Potential Impact: While designed to improve security and reduce queues over time, the initial implementation of EES may lead to delays at entry points.
- Overstayer Tracking: The system will automatically flag travellers who exceed the 90-day stay limit in any country, making it more difficult to overstay undetected.
How Will These Changes Affect Different Travellers?
- Tourists: Leisure travellers must now apply for ETIAS and make sure they meet all entry conditions before departure. Travellers should apply well in advance to avoid disruptions. Biometric scanning at the border may initially cause longer wait times.
- Business Travellers: Those attending meetings or conferences can travel with ETIAS, but individuals planning to work in Europe must apply for a work visa. Due to the new biometric requirements, frequent business travellers should allow extra time in their normal routine for border processing.
- Students: Short-term study programmes under 90 days only require an ETIAS, but longer academic stays will necessitate a student visa. Those participating in school trips may need additional documentation depending on their residency status and destination.
Dawn Morwood, Co-Director of Cheap Deals Away, commented:
“With the introduction of ETIAS, UK travellers will initially have a little more to do while planning a trip. To make sure things go smoothly, apply for your ETIAS early – in fact, I’d recommend having it in hand before you even book hotels and flights.
“Once approved, your ETIAS will last for three years (or until your passport expires, if that is sooner), so you won’t have to apply again. However, you will need to note when the ETIAS expires so that you can apply again in good time.
“As before, your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay to travel to most EU countries. British travellers should also anticipate potential delays at border crossings as travellers’ biometric data is taken for the first time. Anyone travelling for work or study should check their visa requirements carefully to avoid unexpected disruptions. More detailed information on how ETIAS and EES requirements work for all possible travel scenarios can be found on the EU’s website.”