✈️ What UK Holidaymakers Need to Know About the New EU Travel Rules: EES & ETIAS Explained

If you're planning a holiday to Europe in the next year or so, there's a good chance you've heard something about ETIAS or EES and wondered:

"Do I need a visa to visit Spain or Greece now?"
"Will this delay me at the airport?"
"Do I need to apply for something new before I go?"

You're not alone — and that's exactly why we've put this guide together. At ItsSo Travel, we believe in transparency, clarity, and preparing you well for your trip. So let’s break it down…

🧾 What Is the EES?

EES stands for Entry/Exit System. It’s a new EU border control system launching late 2024 (exact date TBC).

Who it affects:

Anyone from a non-EU country (like the UK now post-Brexit) travelling into the EU’s Schengen Area.

What it does:

Replaces the manual passport stamping system

Digitally records when and where you enter/leave the EU

Uses fingerprint and facial recognition tech at border gates

What this means for you:

At some airports, you’ll use a self-service kiosk instead of seeing a border guard

You may need to provide fingerprints and have your photo taken the first time you travel under this system

Expect a little more time at border control the first time — especially in the early days while systems settle in

✅ Good to know:

Once your data is in the system, future trips should be quicker and easier.

🌍 What Is ETIAS?

ETIAS stands for European Travel Information and Authorisation System.

It’s a bit like the US ESTA – a pre-travel authorisation you’ll need to apply for before heading to most European countries.

Launch date: By 9th April 2026.

Who needs it?

UK passport holders (and travellers from 60+ other non-EU countries) visiting the EU for short stays (up to 90 days in any 180-day period).

What does it involve?

A quick online application (takes about 10 minutes)

Cost: €20 for adults (under 18s and over 70s will be exempt)

Valid for 3 years (or until your passport expires, whichever comes first)

What you’ll need to provide:

Passport details

Travel plans

Answers to security and health questions

⚠️ Important:

You must get your ETIAS before you travel — airlines may not let you board without it.

🗺️ Which Countries Are Affected?

Both EES and ETIAS apply to most of the Schengen Area, which includes:

They do NOT apply to:

Ireland 🇮🇪 (you can still visit Ireland without ETIAS or EES)

❓ FAQs – What Our Customers Are Asking

Q: Is ETIAS a visa?

No – it’s a travel authorisation, not a visa. You’re still travelling visa-free for short stays.

Q: Do I need to apply every time I go?

Nope – once granted, it’s valid for multiple trips over 3 years.

Q: Will my kids need ETIAS too?

Yes, but children under 18 won’t have to pay the fee.

Q: What happens if I don’t get it in time?

Unfortunately, you may be denied boarding – just like not having the correct visa or passport.

Q: Will this affect travel costs or bookings?

Not directly – but we recommend applying as early as possible once it’s live, especially in busy travel seasons.

💡 Our Honest Take

At first glance, this might feel like extra admin – and yes, there may be some teething problems early on. But here’s the silver lining:

✅ Faster, more secure borders in the long run

✅ No more messy passport stamps

✅ You can do it all online, easily and affordably

And most importantly: we’re here to help you every step of the way.

When ETIAS applications open, we’ll guide our clients through the process and give you reminders to avoid any travel hiccups. So if you're not sure whether you're affected — or you just want someone to walk you through it — just ask us.

📌 Final Checklist for Travellers to the EU

✅ Check your passport – Make sure it has at least 6 months' validity

✅ Watch for EES launch updates – We’ll keep you informed

✅ Apply for ETIAS (from April 26) – Don’t leave it to the last minute

✅ Ask us questions – It’s what we’re here for!

✉️ Still Got Questions?

Pop into our shop, give us a call, or drop us a message. We don’t just book holidays — we craft experiences. And that includes making sure your journey is smooth, seamless, and stress-free from day one.

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