European Union Launch New Entry/Exit System

The Government of Bermuda London Office is advising the public that the European Union’s [EU] new Entry/Exit System, launching on Sunday [Oct 12], will change travel requirements for British nationals visiting Schengen countries.

A Government spokesperson said, “The Government of Bermuda London Office wishes to advise the public of the European Union’s [EU] planned introduction of the Entry/Exit System [EES] on 12 October 2025, a new digital border management system that will change requirements for British nationals travelling to Schengen area countries.

“Under the new system, UK passport holders will be required to register their biometric information upon arrival at Schengen area ports or airports. This biometric registration will replace the current practice of manually stamping passports upon entry to the EU.

“On your first visit to the Schengen area, you will be required to create a digital record by submitting your biometric details, such as fingerprints and a photograph, at dedicated registration booths. You will not need to provide any personal information before you travel to a Schengen area country.

“As the EES is implemented, travellers may experience longer queue times upon arrival in Schengen area countries due to the biometric registration process. Furthermore, at certain departure points in the UK, such as Dover, Eurotunnel, and St Pancras, there may be increased wait times as EES registration is completed before passengers depart.

ETIAS

“Starting in late 2026, the European Travel Information and Authorisation System [ETIAS] will become a mandatory requirement for visitors from visa-exempt countries travelling to 30 European countries.

“The European Travel Information and Authorisation System is not a visa but a pre-travel authorisation required for short-term visits to any of the following countries:

“Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland

“If you are a national of a visa-exempt country, you must apply online before your trip, and your travel authorisation will be linked electronically to your passport. Once approved, it allows you to stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period across participating countries.

“The application fee for ETIAS has been set at €20, though exemptions apply to specific groups such as minors under 18 and travellers over 70.

“Should anyone require further clarification or assistance, the London Office can be reached at +44 [0]20 7518 9900 or via email at londonoffice@gov.bm.”

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