October Half Term Travel Warning: What UK Families Need to Know About the EES

As families gear up for the upcoming October half term holiday, UK travellers heading to Europe are being urged to familiarise themselves with the Entry/Exit System (EES). With reports of queues frequently making headlines, understanding this digital border system is essential to avoid unnecessary holiday stress.

Since its launch, the system has registered over 145 million entries and exits. Despite its enrollment, over half of travellers (55%) have heard little or nothing about EES, while 49% do not know what will be required of them when entering or exiting the Schengen Area.

With millions of UK travellers continuing to visit Europe, Holidaysafe has revealed everything you need to know about the new EES system.

Understanding the EES Shift

The EES has replaced traditional manual passport stamping with digital records for travellers entering and leaving participating Schengen countries. Although the system has registered over 145 million entries and exits, studies show that over half of travellers (55%) know little or nothing about it, and 49% are unaware of what will be required of them.

What Families Can Expect at the Border

• First-Time Biometrics: For adults and children over 13, your initial trip under the new system will involve providing a facial photograph and fingerprints.

• Exemptions for Younger Children: Children under 12 are exempt from giving fingerprints, though they may still need to have their facial photograph taken.

• Streamlined Future Trips: Once your biometric information is registered, future crossings should be much quicker.

• No Passport Replacement: You still need to travel with a valid passport that meets your destination's entry requirements.

Essential Checklist for Half Term Trips

To ensure a smooth journey through airports, ferry ports, or rail terminals during the busy school break, families should keep the following points in mind

• Allow Extra Time: Arrive earlier than usual at your departure terminal to account for potential initial registration delays.

• Organise Your Documents: Keep your valid passport, accommodation details, and return or onward travel confirmations easily accessible.

• Distinguish From ETIAS: Note that the EES is entirely separate from the ETIAS electronic travel authorisation, which is not yet operational.

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