EU Entry/Exit Scheme (EU EES)

Please note EES only applies to fly-cruises to European destinations.

If your cruise starts and ends in the UK, you won’t need to register for the new EU Entry/Exit Scheme (EES).
Even better - when you step ashore for the day in European ports, you won’t need to do anything extra. Just enjoy your time ashore!

Flying to Join Your Cruise?

If you're joining us on a fly-cruise in 2026, EES may affect your journey.

If you haven't travelled to the Schengen area since the launch of EES, or been registered even if you have, on arrival at your destination you'll be required to provide mandatory biometric data at Border Control.

What Is the EES?

The EU is introducing the Entry/Exit Scheme (EES) to modernise border checks.
Instead of manual passport stamping, travellers will eventually use biometric data (face and fingerprint) for entry and exit.

When Is This Happening?

• Initial rollout started 12 October 2025 in some EU countries.
• Full rollout is expected by 10 April 2026.

What to Expect When EES Is Live

If you're flying into or out of an EU country after rollout:

• You may be asked to provide biometric data at border control.
• This is mandatory - without it, you won’t be able to travel.

Can I Register My Biometric Data Before Travel?

Not yet, but the EU is working on it. We’ll let you know as soon as this becomes available.

Which Countries Are Part of EES?

The scheme will apply to travel in the following countries:

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 and Switzerland.

Coming Soon: ETIAS Visa Waiver

In the future, the EU will also introduce ETIAS, a visa waiver for non-EU visitors (including UK travellers):

• Expected cost: around €20 per person
• Valid for 3 years or until your passport expires
• Must be purchased before travel