From 12 October 2025, the European Union will introduce the Entry/Exit System (EES) for UK and other non-EU nationals.

Please note that the EES is expected to be introduced in phases, so drivers may not be scanned on every trip during the initial stages.

What is EES?

EES is an automated border control system that will soon replace manual passport stamping. Travellers will be required to:

• scan their passport
• have their fingerprints and photograph taken.

This registration will be done at the border on the first visit to a participating EU country after EES is introduced.

Key points for drivers

All UK and non-EU nationals must register.

• Registration is valid for three years or until the passport expires.
• After initial registration, future border crossings will only require a passport scan and either a fingerprint or a photo.

Please note that the citizens from the following countries are EXEMPT:

Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, San Marino, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, the Vatican.

What is changing at the border?

• We've worked closely with the French authorities (PAF – Police aux Frontières) to install new biometric equipment directly in the existing lanes, ensuring a seamless experience for drivers.
• The biometric checks will be integrated into the current border process.

As UK and non-EU Nationals represent only around 10% of freight drivers, we expect minimal impact on overall traffic flow.

More details on the gov.uk website

What you need to do

Please ensure your drivers are aware of these new requirements to help facilitate smooth border crossings.

LeShuttle Freight