05/06/2026
The EU's Entry/Exit System (EES) has now been in operation across European border points for some time and is being used for all UK and other non-EU travellers entering and leaving participating countries.
Whilst many travellers are passing through border controls without issue, there have been reports of longer waiting times at some airports and border crossing points, particularly during peak travel periods. We therefore wanted to provide a brief update on how the system works and what customers can expect when travelling to Europe.
What is EES?
The Entry/Exit System (EES) replaces traditional passport stamping with a secure digital record of when travellers enter and leave Europe.
As part of the process, travellers are required to register biometric information, helping to improve border security and streamline future journeys.
What Happens During Registration?
On your first entry into Europe under EES, border authorities will usually collect:
- A facial image
- Fingerprint scans
This information is securely linked to your passport and retained for future travel.
Children under 12 will generally only be required to provide a facial image.
What Should Travellers Expect?
As airports and border authorities continue to adapt to the new system, processing times can vary depending on a number of factors.
Customers should be prepared for:
- Additional checks during their first EES registration
- Longer queues at immigration during busy periods
- Variable waiting times depending on the airport, destination, time of day and passenger volumes
- Delays which may vary depending on the day of travel and how many flights are arriving or departing at the same time
- Additional document checks at some airports
Whilst many journeys continue to operate smoothly, we recommend allowing extra time and being prepared for delays, particularly during school holidays, weekends and other peak travel periods.
Future Travel
Once your biometric details have been registered, they will generally remain valid for up to three years, meaning future entries into Europe should be quicker and require fewer checks.
You may need to re-register if you obtain a new passport or your stored details expire.
Although your details will be stored for future travel, there is currently no guaranteed fast-track process through European border control for travellers who have previously registered under EES. Waiting times can still vary depending on the airport, time of travel and passenger numbers, so we recommend continuing to allow plenty of time when travelling.
Return Journey (Departure from Europe)
When travelling home, customers should allow extra time for check-in, security and border control procedures.
We recommend arriving at the airport at least three hours before departure and proceeding through airport formalities as soon as possible.
Once through security and border control, please ensure you make your way promptly to your departure gate, as some airports may have additional document checks, queueing systems or longer walking distances between terminals and gates. Whilst it can be tempting to stop for a drink or browse the shops, missing your flight would be at your own risk, so please ensure you leave plenty of time to reach the gate and be ready to board when requested.
Failure to allow sufficient time may result in missed flights, particularly during busy travel periods when passenger numbers are higher.
Top Travel Tips
- Arrive at the airport in good time – we recommend at least three hours before departure for both outbound and return flights when travelling through European border control
- Keep passports and travel documents readily accessible
- Have accommodation and return travel details available if requested
- Ensure your mobile phone is charged and switched on upon arrival
- Allow extra time when travelling to Europe for immigration and border checks
- Be prepared for queues during busy travel periods
