The EU Entry/Exit system is an automated border system that records non-EU travellers entering and leaving the EU Schengen area. This has been in force since 10th April 2026 and applies to UK travellers visiting Schengen countries. This includes most of our ski holiday countries, including Austria, Bulgaria, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Norway, Poland, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland.

What does it mean for you?

• On your first crossing, you'll register your passport and biometric data (fingerprints and a photo) at a kiosk at the border, or before departure at certain UK airports.
• On later crossings, your details are already stored, so you'll usually need a quick facial scan at an EES gate.
• Your passport is no longer stamped.
• At the border you may be asked about your accommodation, travel plans and funds. A return or onward ticket helps but isn't legally required.

What should you do before you travel?

• Keep proof of accommodation, funds and onward travel to hand. Your Heidi booking confirmation covers accommodation and is in your MyBooking portal under Documents.
• You can pre-register your passport and photo in the EU's free "Travel to Europe" app within 72 hours of travel, which can speed things up where it's available.

Who is exempt?

• Children under 12 don't give fingerprints, though a photo is still taken.
• Some residents, family members of EU nationals and certain visa holders are exempt.

Coming next: ETIAS

• ETIAS is a separate travel authorisation that UK travellers will also need. This is not a visa. It costs €20, lasts three years or until your passport expires, and covers multiple trips. The launch date is still being confirmed and is expected in late 2026 or 2027, so there's nothing to apply for yet. When it opens, apply only through the official EU website.