EES / ETIAS - Formalities in the EU

Europe is updating border formalities for non‑EU short‑stay visitors. The EU’s Entry/Exit System (EES) is due to start on 12 October 2025 and will be introduced gradually across Schengen, with full implementation targeted by 10 April 2026. A separate EU pre‑travel authorisation for visa‑exempt travellers (ETIAS) is expected from late 2026. In parallel, the UK’s Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for non‑visa nationals has been operational since April 2025. Employers should plan ahead for both EU (EES/ETIAS) and UK (ETA) requirements to minimise travel friction and overstay risk.