Minister for Border Security and Asylum (): In July 2024, this
Government set out the steps we were taking to strengthen
readiness for the European Union's Entry/Exit System (EES) and to
minimise disruption for journeys via the United Kingdom's
juxtaposed border controls. Since then, the Government has
continued to work closely with ports, carriers and international
partners, including supporting the delivery of necessary
infrastructure and technology at juxtaposed sites. Today, I am
updating the House ahead of full implementation on 10 April 2026,
setting out the context for its introduction, the preparations
undertaken at UK ports, and the practical implications for
travellers.
The Government has been working to prepare UK citizens, ports and
carriers for the introduction of the EU's new digital border
system. EES is an EU‑owned system, introduced by the European
Union and its Member States as part of their external border
reforms, and its design, delivery and implementation timetable
are determined by the EU.
In October 2025, the EU introduced the Entry/Exit System (EES),
which many British citizens will already have experienced. EES
replaces passport stamping throughout the Schengen area. The
system was launched with a six-month phased implementation period
and is due to come into force in full on 10 April 2026. Most
travellers from the UK and other non-EU countries who do not hold
a long-term visa or residence permit will be required to register
for EES at the border. This will include capture of both
fingerprints and a facial image on entry to the Schengen Area, as
well as some checks on exit. EES will strengthen the security of
the EU's external border, and the UK remains supportive of this
objective as part of our shared commitment to secure and
well-managed borders
The decision to introduce EES, and the timing of its
implementation, rest with the EU and its Member States. The
Government has engaged closely with the European Commission and
Member States throughout the development and phased
implementation period to ensure the implications for British
travellers are understood, to advocate for a proportionate and
pragmatic approach, and to make sure we are able to support our
citizens to navigate these new border arrangements.
At UK ports with juxtaposed border controls – Dover, Eurotunnel,
and Eurostar (St Pancras) – EES registration will take place on
UK soil before passengers' departure. The Government has
supported the ports and carriers to ensure that appropriate
technology and processes in place. This included providing £10.5
million to support the juxtaposed ports in installing new
technology and complete infrastructure works, recognising that
these changes represent a significant operational shift at some
of the UK's busiest routes to Europe. The UK juxtaposed ports
have undertaken a substantial programme of work to prepare for
EES.
Last year, the Government launched public communications to raise
awareness of the new border checks among British travellers, and
this will continue as EES is fully implemented. Travellers are
advised to check with their operator and follow the latest advice
on GOV.UK, which may include allowing extra time for EES exit
processing when returning to the UK.
The Government remains committed to maintaining fluidity at the
border, and to supporting both industry and the public as they
adapt to the changing landscape of modern border systems. We will
continue to engage with the EU and its Member States to press for
smooth implementation and to advocate for the interests of
British citizens travelling to Europe.
