From October 2025, passport stamps from European nations will largely become a thing of the past. Twenty-nine countries, including France, Italy, Spain, Portugal, Switzerland, Finland, Iceland and the Netherlands, begin rolling out the Entry/Exit System (EES), which replaces physical stamps with biometric checks including facial recognition and fingerprints at airports and other border points.
Visa-exempt travellers, including Australians, will register digitally at kiosks on arrival. Once recorded, subsequent border crossings should be faster. The system is expected to be fully operational by April 2026 and will be followed by the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) in late 2026, which will require an online authorisation and a small fee.
As Apex Travel Director Luke Hardaker explains “Understanding these changes is vital. It’s important to speak with your travel advisor at the time or booking and to take some time to familiarise yourself with the latest requirements. This way your journey will remain seamless and stress-free.”
For accurate information and up to date guidance, please refer only to official government websites or check with your travel advisor:
Travel tips for a seamless journey
With the new European border changes coming into effect, it’s important that travellers:
- Allow extra time at borders: Initial queues may be longer as EES is implemented.
- Check passport validity: Ensure your biometric/e-passport is valid well beyond your intended stay.
- Be aware of exemptions: Long-stay visa or residence permit holders, and young children, may not need full biometric processing.
- Plan for ETIAS: Online authorisation will be required for short-stay trips from late 2026.
- Work with an Apex Travel powered by TAG travel advisor: We help you navigate the new rules, avoid unofficial websites, and ensure smooth, stress-free travel.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Travellers should verify entry requirements through official EU sources before travel. Information is correct at time of writing (October 2025).
