From 12 October 2025, the European Union’s (EU) new Entry/Exit System (EES) will begin. This is a new digital border system that will change requirements for British citizens travelling to France.
If you are travelling for a short stay using a UK passport, you will be required to register your biometric details, such as fingerprints and a photo, when you arrive. You do not need to take any action before you arrive at the border, and there is no cost for EES registration.
After it is fully implemented, EES registration will replace the current system of manually stamping passports when visitors arrive in the EU.
EES may take each passenger a few extra minutes to complete so be prepared to wait longer than usual at the border once the system starts.
When EES is introduced, you may need to create a digital record on your first visit to France at the port or airport on arrival. You will need to submit your fingerprints and have your photo taken at dedicated booths.
You will not need to provide any information before travelling to France. If you are flying to France, you will complete EES checks when you arrive at your destination. The checks may take a few minutes, so be prepared to wait during busy times.
If you enter France through the Port of Dover, Eurotunnel at Folkestone or St Pancras International, EES checks will be completed at the border, before you leave the UK. You may also need to provide either your fingerprint or photo when you leave France.
If you frequently travel to France for work and/or leisure purposes, you must ensure that your total stay in France is no more than 90 days in every 180 days. You must be aware of the penalty and enforcement approach for exceeding the immigration limit in any individual Member State you plan to travel to, or through.
Your digital EES record is valid for 3 years. If you enter France again during this time, you will only need to provide a fingerprint or photo at the border, when you enter and exit.
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