All UK passport holders visiting Europe from October 12th have been issued important travel advice over the impending introduction of a new digital border system.
The ruling affects all travel to Schengen Area countries, which comprises all EU nations other than Ireland and Cyrpus, as well as four additional non-EU destinations – namely Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland.
“If you’re planning on travelling to any of these countries – which includes Spain, Italy and France – there will be new changes in place,” advised TikTok user and Podcast host News With Peter.
Peter explained: “You’re going to have to bring proof of why you are going, as well as providing proof of a few things about yourself as well.”
Indeed, the introduction of the new Entry/Exit System (EES) means UK passport holders will be required to take extra documentation with you.
Peter advised: “If it’s a short stay, you will be required to register your details and provide fingerprints and a photo when you arrive at your location. This is because eventually the manual stamping of your passport will no longer be a thing.”
Peter outlined his hopes that whilst it may initially make the immigration process longer, over time it should ensure a smoother, faster experience at the border.
He added: “You may also be asked to bring some key requirements such as travel insurance, proof you have return travel to the UK as well as details of your accommodation and financial information.”
The government’s website warns that queues at borders may be longer when these changes begin, meanwhile. It adds: “After it is fully implemented, Entry/Exit System registration will replace the current system of manually stamping passports when visitors arrive in the EU.
“EES may take each passenger a few extra minutes to complete so be prepared to wait longer than usual at the border once the system starts.”
Slamming the change, one TikTok user penned in response: “I don’t feel comfortable with sharing fingerprints. And why do they need another photo if I already have my passport which has my photo?”
A second person pondered: “Fingerprints? That’s gonna cause people to be in the airport for ages and create such a traffic jam and congestion in the airport.”
However, a third traveller appeared unmoved, pointing out: “This is stuff I usually print out and take with me on holiday anyway.
“Who the hell travels without proof of insurance and confirmations anyway? It’s useful to have all this info on hand in case there are issues while there.”
The EES is part of broader efforts by the EU to enhance their border security measures. By the end of 2026, the EU anticipates launching the new European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), although no immediate action is required from travellers.
The EU will announce the specific start date for ETIAS prior to its implementation. Once ETIAS comes into effect, UK passport holders will need to apply for authorisation before entering Schengen zone countries. This process will involve providing personal details, trip information, and paying a fee of 20 Euros for the authorisation.