What's the EU's Entry/Exit System (EES)?
The EU’s Entry/Exit System (EES) is a new border requirement for non-EU nationals (including British nationals).
When is it being introduced?
It’s being gradually rolled out from 12 October 2025.
Who does it apply to?
Non-EU nationals (including British nationals) travelling to the EU for short stays (up to 90 days within a 180-day period).
Other travellers are not impacted by EES.
How will it impact my journey?
EES isn’t like a travel authorisation or visa – it's completely free and you don’t need to apply for anything ahead of your journey. It all happens at border control at your departure station on the day of travel.
EES is being launched gradually and there will be minimal changes in the first few months.
Just arrive at the station at the recommended time stated on your ticket. This timing takes into account how much time you’ll need for all pre-departure checks (ticket, security and border checks). We’ve also allowed for any EES steps you may have to complete at border control, which may include registering your biometrics (face image and fingerprints).
Make sure you’re carrying all the travel documents you need for your journey. For a smoother departure experience, check border rules before setting off.
Travelling in Eurostar Premier or as a Carte Blanche or Étoile Club Eurostar member from London St Pancras International?
When you get to Eurostar Departures to start your journey, you may be invited by our station team to register with EES using a pre-registration kiosk. These are located opposite the Eurostar Premier priority ticket gates.
At the pre-registration kiosk, you’ll be asked to scan your passport and register your biometrics (face image and fingerprints). This step will help to save time at border control.
Once done, please go through the Eurostar Premier priority ticket gates, security and border checks.
Eurostar Premier priority ticket gates close 15 minutes before departure, but please make sure you arrive at departures with plenty of time to spare.
You’re saying there will be minimal changes in the first few months. What happens next?
In time, all non-EU nationals required to register for EES (including British nationals) will need to do so every time they enter or leave the EU - so, every time they travel to or from London with Eurostar. We’ll provide a further update well in advance and contact impacted travellers to let them know what to expect and help them prepare for their journey.
For now, please follow the above advice and you’ll be all set for your trip.
Want to know more about EES?
Visit the official EES website for more info.