A significant change in border control regulations will affect UK motorhome and caravan owners travelling to the European Union from October 12. The new Entry/Exit System (EES) will require additional checks for British travellers, with potential entry refusal for those failing to comply with the updated requirements.
These changes will impact anyone taking their vehicle to the EU for stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. The implementation marks a crucial shift in how British citizens access EU countries post-Brexit.
The Labour Party has acknowledged the significance of these changes, stating they're working closely with European partners to minimise disruption. "While we have done everything we can to ensure the required infrastructure is in place, travellers will need to allow extra time for their journeys as the new EU systems become established," a spokesperson explained.
Implementation timeline and locations
The EES system will be gradually implemented across European countries over a six-month period, extending to April 2026. Key UK departure points, including the Port of Dover, Eurotunnel at Folkestone, and Eurostar at St Pancras International, will conduct these checks before travellers leave British soil.
The new rules will affect British travellers visiting a wide range of European countries, including popular destinations such as Spain, France, Italy, Greece, and Portugal, as well as Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Germany, Hungary, Iceland, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Sweden, and Switzerland.
Future requirements
Looking ahead, British citizens will need to obtain a valid European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) travel authorisation. However, this additional requirement isn't scheduled for implementation until the final quarter of 2026, providing travellers with adequate time to prepare for these future changes.