Just a reminder to everybody that from 12 October 2025, the European Union will introduce the Entry/Exit System (EES) — a new digital border control for travellers from outside the EU, including UK citizens.

The EES will replace passport stamping with biometric checks (facial scan and fingerprints) and a digital record of each traveller’s entry and exit. It applies to non-EU nationals visiting the Schengen Area short-term — up to 90 days in any 180-day period.

The system will first appear at UK exit points such as Dover, Folkestone (Eurotunnel), and Eurostar (St Pancras) as well as major EU entry points such as Düsseldorf, Madrid-Barajas, Rome Fiumicino, Milan Malpensa, Amsterdam Schiphol, and key Dutch ports (Eemshaven, IJmuiden). Over the next six months, it will expand to all EU external borders. During the transition, passport stamping may continue and delays are possible, especially at busy crossings like Dover, Folkestone, and Eurostar terminals.

Although it doesn’t immediately affect those of us who fly to and from Alicante you may be affected sooner if you drive here from the UK and by April 2026 the EES is expected to be fully operational.

The UK Government has recently launched a campaign to raise awareness and it can be viewed here.