Spain Joins France, Greece, Germany and Italy This Winter Extravaganza Making it Difficult for British Travellers to Visit: How?

Published on December 12, 2025

As the winter travel season approaches, British travelers heading to countries in the Schengen Area will encounter new requirements due to the European Union’s Entry/Exit System (EES). This system, which has been gradually rolled out since October 2025, mandates that non-EU citizens, including those from the UK, provide biometric data when entering the Schengen Zone. These changes, set to affect many during the busy festive period, aim to streamline border control processes, reduce wait times, and improve security.

What is the Entry/Exit System (EES)?

The EES is a new initiative introduced by the European Union to modernize the way borders are managed. Starting from October 2025, travelers from non-EU countries, including the UK, will be required to register their biometric data at the border. This data includes fingerprints and facial photographs, which will be taken upon entry to the Schengen area.

The primary goal of the EES is to reduce the long queues that travelers often face at passport control. By digitizing the entry and exit process, the system aims to increase efficiency and improve security at borders. This move is part of a broader effort by the EU to enhance border management and make travel more streamlined for both citizens and visitors.

Which Countries Will Be Affected?

The EES will apply to all countries within the Schengen Area, which includes much of the EU. The following nations will be directly impacted by the new system:

• Austria
• Belgium
• Bulgaria
• Croatia
• Czech Republic
• Denmark
• Estonia
• Finland
• France
• Germany
• Greece
• Hungary
• Iceland
• Italy
• Latvia
• Liechtenstein
• Lithuania
• Luxembourg
• Malta
• Netherlands
• Norway
• Poland
• Portugal
• Romania
• Slovakia
• Slovenia
• Spain
• Sweden
• Switzerland

For travelers heading to these destinations, biometric data collection will be mandatory. However, manual passport stamping will continue for the first six months of the system’s implementation, allowing for a smoother transition as the new system is fully integrated.

What Do Travelers Need to Know?

For British travelers, the new system means that upon arriving at the border in any of the Schengen countries, they will need to provide their fingerprints and have their photo taken. This is in addition to the usual passport check. The biometric data will then be linked to the traveler’s passport, creating a digital record that will be valid for three years. Once registered, travelers will only need to provide their biometric data again when entering or exiting the Schengen area within that three-year period.

The Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office (FCDO) has advised that no advance action is required for travelers before arrival at the border. The registration process is free of charge and will take place at the border upon entry to the Schengen Zone.

Exceptions to the New Rules

Not all travelers will be required to register their biometric data. Certain individuals are exempt from the new system, including:

• Those holding a residence card or permit from an EU country
• Nationals of Andorra, Monaco, San Marino, or Vatican City
• Diplomats or those on a short diplomatic stay
• Individuals with long-term residency permits or visas
• Non-EU nationals traveling for specific purposes like research, education, or voluntary services

These exemptions apply to those with specific legal statuses or travel purposes, and they are outlined in further detail on the EU website.

Impact on Popular Winter Destinations

The changes come at a time when many British travelers are planning their trips to popular European destinations for the festive season. Countries such as Spain, Greece, and France are among the most popular winter holiday spots for Brits, whether for sightseeing, visiting family, or enjoying the seasonal markets.

However, as a result of these new entry requirements, travelers may experience longer waits at border control, especially during peak travel times like the holidays. It is advised that passengers allow extra time at the airport to accommodate the biometric registration process. Despite this, the EES is expected to ultimately speed up the overall border control process once fully implemented.

Travelers Urged to Stay Informed

The FCDO has urged British travelers to remain informed about the new requirements and ensure they are prepared for the changes. This includes ensuring that they are aware of which countries are affected by the EES and understanding the process of biometric registration. The FCDO has also stated that the new system will provide a more secure and efficient way for people to travel within the Schengen Area.

The Future of European Travel

While the EES system will affect how travelers interact with border control, it also promises to improve the overall travel experience in the long run. By digitalizing border management, the system aims to reduce the inefficiencies of manual checks and allow for faster processing of travelers entering and exiting the Schengen Area.

As travel resumes after the disruptions caused by the pandemic, systems like the EES are becoming essential for managing the increasing flow of international travelers. The hope is that it will not only improve the efficiency of travel but also enhance safety and security across European borders.

Conclusion

With the EU’s introduction of the Entry/Exit System in 2025, British travelers are facing new entry requirements that will impact their trips to countries in the Schengen Area. While the changes may cause some initial delays, they are ultimately designed to streamline border processes and improve security. British citizens are advised to stay informed and prepared, ensuring that they understand how biometric registration works and what it means for their travel plans during the winter season and beyond.