How are the entry requirements to the EU changing?

You may have heard that entry requirements for the EU are changing. While these changes are rolling out, we are working hard to ease the transition for our customers. Here’s what you need to know now.

 

New checks at the EU's borders

The EU has introduced a new border management system called the Entry/Exit System (EES). It applies to non-EU nationals entering the Schengen area (open border area of the EU) for a short stay.

At the border, travellers are now required to complete biometric checks, including a facial image and fingerprint scan. These checks will replace the manual stamping of passports.

EES is now in effect at many border points. Stena Line passengers travelling to Hoek van Holland who are non-EU nationals will be subject to these new checks. All passengers may experience longer disembarkation times as the system is phased in.

Good to know: EES does not apply if you’re travelling to Ireland, or if you’re an EU, EEA or Swiss citizen or resident.

A short stay is defined as up to 90 days within any 180-day period. You can check your remaining days using the EU short-stay calculator.

Travellers should have their passport ready. Car passengers may be asked to step out of the vehicle during checks.

 

Find out more on the  Entry Exit System (EES) European Union website

 

ETIAS: Entering Europe for a short stay

The EU is preparing to launch a second system - the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) - for visa-exempt non-EU travellers, including UK citizens.

 

Once ETIAS is live, travellers will need to apply for travel authorisation before entering the Schengen area for short stays.

 

What you need to know:

  • A short stay is up to 90 days within any 180-day period
  • ETIAS will involve a small application fee (exemptions apply for travellers under 18 or over 70)
  • It will be valid for 3 years or until your passport expires – whichever comes first
  • Ireland is not part of the Schengen area, so ETIAS is not required for entry to Ireland. However, visa rules may still apply depending on your nationality

 

You don’t need to take any action yet. ETIAS is not live. When it launches (expected in late 2026), we will update the FAQ section on our website and include information in pre-travel emails.

 

Find out more on the ETIAS European Union website