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3d ago

EU Confirms October Rollout of Biometric Entry System for Non-EU Nationals

The phased six-month implementation of the Entry/Exit System will replace passport stamping with digital biometric checks, raising concerns over potential travel delays.

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Overview

  • The EU's Entry/Exit System (EES) will launch in October 2025, requiring non-EU travelers, including Britons, to register fingerprints and facial images upon entry.
  • The system will replace manual passport stamping and digitally enforce post-Brexit stay limits of 90 days within a 180-day period for British nationals.
  • Eurostar is preparing for the rollout by installing 49 self-service kiosks at St Pancras Station, while Channel Tunnel operators are expanding processing areas.
  • Airlines and border authorities warn of potential delays, with car processing times at the Channel Tunnel expected to increase from under one minute to up to seven minutes.
  • Following the EES rollout, the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (Etias) will launch in 2026, requiring a €7 visa-waiver for non-EU visitors.