Huge travel change arrives for all UK passport holders – and it starts now
The new regulations will come into force from October and will impact all British passport holders - but some fear it could cause longer queues at the airport
Fresh regulations are being rolled out for British passport holders visiting certain European destinations.
Travel expert Sam Ward discussed these new requirements in an educational TikTok clip, explaining how the alterations will impact UK holidaymakers.
He explained: "From October 2025, if you're travelling from the UK to Europe, your passport experience is about to change. Here's what you need to know.
"The EU is finally launching its Entry/Exit system, known as EES. Every UK traveller entering or leaving the Schengen area will be digitally recorded. That means at the border, you'll give your passport, have your photo taken and your fingerprints scanned the first time you use the system.
"EES starts on October 12, 2025, but it won't be everywhere at once. There will be a transition period until April 2026, where some airports will still stamp passports while the system is phased in.
"After that, stamping should be replaced by these digital checks. This only applies to the Schengen zone though - which is most of the EU, plus Norway, Iceland and Switzerland.
"Ireland and Cyprus are not included so those border rules will stay the same."
Many worry it could result in longer queues at airports, reports OK!
This is probably inevitable when the fresh rules are introduced, as travellers adjust to the updated procedures.
Nevertheless, it might prove more streamlined once everybody understands the new system. In the meantime, the travel TikToker advises Brits jetting off from October onwards to allow additional time for navigating through the new security procedures.
He continued: "It could mean longer queues at first as everyone gets used to fingerprints and face scans.
"So, if you've got a European trip planned after October, give yourself some extra time at the airport, and make sure you're ready for the new checks when you land at the other airport."