Europe Entry/Exit Scheme (EES)

The EU recently confirmed the phased launch of the Europe Entry/Exit Scheme (EES), beginning 12 October and running over a six-month period when it should be fully implemented across all EU countries.

Since this announcement, we have been working closely with several UK government departments to understand the implications for our Members and their customers.

We will be arranging a Members’ call shortly to discuss the likely impact of EES in more detail.  In the meantime, if you have any questions about the scheme’s implementation, please do get in touch — we will either answer directly or forward your query to the relevant government contacts.

Attached is the Industry Toolkit, which went live Monday 8 September. This includes links to downloadable assets on the Home Office’s Brandworkzplatform, grouped by transport mode.  We encourage Members to use whichever assets and key messages are most suitable for your channels and audiences. Suggested ways to share include:

• Creating bespoke posts for your social media channels using the assets provided, or adapting them into your own branding.
• Publishing a blog post to help customers prepare for EES. (We are happy to support you with draft copy.)
• Including EES messaging within customer emails or newsletters.

Please note: the assets do not include the 12 October start date, as the government cannot confirm exactly when UK travellers will begin completing EES checks (photo and fingerprint capture). However, the current plan is for all EU countries to have EES checks fully implemented by 10 April 2026.

Finally, please also see the comprehensive FAQ document. This is designed to support Trade Associations and Travel Organisers in communicating EES to consumers but should not be distributed externally to passengers and travellers.

Please contact the ABTOT Team enquiry@abtot.com