New post-Brexit developments are set to be implemented for British citizens heading to Europe, with two rule changes now on the horizon. One of the proposed rules will see an increase in the charge for Brits heading to the continent, and another could see travellers from the UK stuck in lines for longer periods of time with the implementation of added security measures.
Europe is currently in the process of rolling out an Entry/Exit system (EES) which is billed as a cutting-edge digital border framework. This will transform travel requirements for British citizens heading to the Schengen area. The Schengen zone enables over 400 million individuals to move seamlessly between member nations without encountering border checkpoints.
This expansive region encompasses 30 popular tourist destination countries — including France, Germany, and Greece. The postponed EES framework is scheduled to debut later this year, with the EU announcing that the EES will commence in October, perfectly timed for the October half-term holiday.
A government spokesman said Britons will have to register biometric data such as fingerprints and a photo of their face when they arrive. This is set to replace the current system of stamping passports. While Britons travelling to Europe this summer won’t be hit by this, the EES is scheduled for a gradual rollout from 12 October onwards.
The fingerprinting and facial photographs are believed to extend queue times at airports and will see passengers standing in line for longer periods at airports, international railway stations, and ports.
Details released by Gov.uk provide a glimpse into some of the modifications British travelers may encounter during their journeys.
According to Gov.uk: “When EES is introduced, you will need to create a digital record on your first visit to the Schengen area at the port or airport on arrival.
“You will be required to submit your fingerprints and have your photo taken at dedicated booths. You will not need to provide any information before travelling to a Schengen area country.”
Travelers flying to Schengen zone destinations may face extended wait times upon arrival at their destination. Your digital profile will remain active for three years.
Should you re-enter the Schengen territory within this timeframe, a traveler simply needs to supply a fingerprint or photograph at the checkpoint when crossing borders in both directions. The purpose behind this new system is to “improve border security” across the EU and neighboring nations, while cutting down on illegal migration throughout the Schengen zone.
The system will streamline border control procedures to help the EU prevent visitors from exceeding their permitted stay.
EES represents one component of the EU’s broader efforts to bolster border security measures. During the final quarter of 2026, the EU anticipates launching operations for the new European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS).
From next year, Britons travelling to Europe will have to start paying for authorisation to enter as well and this is where the ETIAS will come into play. This is a document for visa-exempt travellers to Europe, like Britons.
While it was originally proposed to cost just €7 (£6), it now looks likely to cost €20 (£17.30) from its implementation date in late 2026.
The reason for the increase is due to the European Commision voted for the higher fee this month. The increase puts the price in line with other similar schemes, such as those that involve citizens of the US and Canada. The European Parliament and European Council will review the new proposed price over the next two months — with a view to suggest any necessary changes.
But there is a silver lining for some passengers. When the fee comes into force, children under 18, seniors over 70, and certain family members of EU citizens won’t have to pay it and will be exempt from the charge. It is advised that any British citizens looking at taking holidays overseas check the requirements for visas, fees, and other factors before travelling. The ETIAS and EES are yet to be finalised, so it is imperative you check developments if you are going on a trip.