New EU Travel Regulations to Introduce Biometric Checks and Visa-Waiver Fees for UK Citizens

Upcoming changes will affect millions of British travelers, with new systems set to be implemented from November 2024.

The EU's Entry-Exit System (EES) will start in November 2024, requiring biometric data from UK visitors.
From May 2025, the Electronic Travel Information and Authorisation System (Etias) will be introduced, with a €7 fee for a three-year permit.
UK travelers will not need to comply with Etias until November 2025, with a six-month grace period extending to mid-2026.
The new regulations are a result of Brexit, aligning UK travelers with other non-EU nationals.
Significant delays and increased travel costs are expected at major transit points like Dover and Eurostar terminals.