Introduction
On October 12, 2025, the EU’s new Entry/Exit System (EES) will significantly change travelers’ entry from the UK into Europe. Specifically, it will impact passengers via the Port of Dover, the Eurotunnel, and the Eurostar.
What Is EES and Why Now?
In time, the EES will replace manual passport stamps with biometric checks. In particular, the system will register the fingerprints and facial images of non-EU travelers entering the Schengen area.
Importantly, the system aims to strengthen border security and track stays more accurately. Moreover, it covers travelers from over 60 non-EU countries, including the UK.
The European Commission estimates that nearly 280 million border crossings annually will soon require EES registration. Consequently, travelers should expect longer processing times at first. Meanwhile, full implementation across all ports and stations is set for April 10, 2026.
Dover: Staggered EES Rollout
At Dover, coaches will face EES checks from October 12. In particular, passengers must disembark, use self-registration kiosks in a new processing zone, then reboard. Overall, this process involves 12 kiosks dedicated to coach travelers.
Meanwhile, car passengers will follow from November 1, with 72 kiosks ready for vehicle traffic. Notably, Dover authorities can temporarily suspend checks to prevent excessive tailbacks. However, officials warn delays remain likely during peak travel.
Eurotunnel: Coaches and Freight First
Similarly, Eurotunnel will begin EES checks for coaches and freight vehicles on October 12. On the other hand, car passengers will follow weeks later. Nevertheless, the operator Getlink has not confirmed an exact date for car rollout.
Nevertheless, the site’s controls—where French border checks occur before boarding—remain in place. Yet EES adds a new biometric step on top. Therefore, travelers using Eurotunnel should expect layered checks that may increase boarding times.
“When the vehicle arrives at the terminal, all passengers, regardless of status, check-in at the kiosk,” a spokesperson said. “If identified as EU citizens, the vehicle will continue its journey without entering the EES biometric data area.”
Confident EES Rollout at St Pancras
Meanwhile, Eurostar has confirmed it is fully prepared for the EES launch. The company insists queues will not develop at St Pancras. Importantly, EES registration will occur before boarding. Hence, this strategy should prevent congestion on arrival.
“We’re working hand in hand with our border colleagues to make sure that we do this in a very controlled, measured way, helping our customers every step of the way and making sure there are no queues as a result,” said Eurostar chief safety and stations officer Simon Lejeune, speaking to PA Media.
Broader EES Implications
Across all three hubs, infrastructure investments aim to reduce disruption. For instance, Dover has built processing centers, while Eurotunnel has upgraded kiosks. On the other hand, Eurostar has expanded check-in systems. Yet officials admit EES transitional delays remain possible.
Therefore, passengers should allow extra time for travel. Coach and car travelers face the biggest adjustments, while Eurostar passengers may benefit from smoother procedures. Moreover, travelers should stay updated as the phased rollout progresses toward April 2026.
Photo by Frederic Köberl on Unsplash
