What is the Entry/Exit System (EES)?
The European Union plans to introduce a new digital border Entry/Exit System (EES), changing requirements for non-EU nationals travelling to certain European countries, including France. This new electronic system replaces the manual stamping of passports when you enter a country in the Schengen area, registering all entry and exit movements electronically.
How will EES work?
With the new EES process, if you are a non-EU national travelling to one of the specified countries, including France, you will be required to create a digital record and register your biometric details, replacing the manual stamping of passports. Biometric details include providing fingerprints, and having your photo taken. Registration will take place on a visitor’s first visit to a country in the Schengen area after EES has been introduced and should only take a few minutes to complete.
Children under 12 will not be fingerprinted, but all visitors, including babies, will need to have their photo taken and their digital record created.
I’m taking the Eurostar to Disneyland Paris. How will EES impact me?
If you are heading to Disneyland Paris on the Eurostar, EES processing will take place at the Eurostar London St. Pancras Station, as you leave the UK. We anticipate that this additional step may add additional time to your journey. For the latest information on how EES might affect your journey, please check the Eurostar website.
I’m flying to Disneyland Paris. How will EES impact me?
If you are flying to Disneyland Paris, your EES processing will take place when you land at your arrival airport. We anticipate that this additional step may add additional time to your journey. For the latest information on how EES might affect your journey, please check your airline’s website.
I’m driving to Disneyland Paris with LeShuttle or P&O Ferries. How will EES impact me?
If you are driving to Disneyland Paris with LeShuttle or P&O Ferries, EES processing will take place at your departure point, as you leave the UK. We anticipate that this additional step may add additional time to your journey. For the latest information on how EES might affect your journey, please check the LeShuttle or P&O Ferries website.
Do I need to do anything for EES before I travel?
No, there is nothing different you need to do before your trip! Your biometric details will be collected during your journey, either at your departure point (Eurostar, LeShuttle, P&O Ferries) or at your arrival airport.
Are there any changes to passport requirements?
No, there are no changes to passport requirements for travel to France. You’ll still need a valid passport to visit the EU, and it should be valid for at least 3 months after the date you plan to leave the EU. For the latest information, please visit the Foreign Travel Advice link below.
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Do I need to pay a fee for EES?
No, there is no fee for completing EES.
What happens if I choose not to complete EES?
Unfortunately, if you decide not to complete the EES process, entry to the country will be denied.