The European Union's new Entry/Exit System (EES) is preparing to launch in late 2026, and travel experts are warning of potential holiday season disruptions. The digital border system will require non-EU visitors to register biometric data including fingerprints and facial scans upon entry, replacing the current passport stamp process. According to the BBC, industry officials expect significant delays during the initial rollout period as travelers and border staff adjust to the new procedures.
The EES will apply to all non-EU citizens entering the Schengen Area for short stays, affecting millions of British, American, Canadian, and other international travelers. Unlike the current system where you simply show your passport, the new process will require first-time visitors to complete biometric enrollment that could take several minutes per person. Subsequent visits will be faster, but the initial registration creates a bottleneck concern for busy travel periods.
What this means for your trip
If you're planning European travel for late 2026 or early 2027, build extra time into your itinerary for border crossings. Arrive at airports at least three hours early for international flights to EU destinations, especially during peak holiday periods. Consider traveling during off-peak times if possible, and prioritize direct flights to minimize multiple border crossings. The system will eventually streamline travel once fully implemented, but the transition period requires careful planning.
Stay informed about the exact launch date as it approaches, since timing may shift based on technical readiness across all EU member states.