EES Explained: Travel Insurance Guidance for UK Travellers to the EU
From 12 October, the EU’s new Entry/Exit System (EES) will begin at London St Pancras for Eurostar business and premium passengers, before extending to all travellers in January 2026.
The new system records passport details, biometric data, and trip information at self-service kiosks.
During registration, passengers will be asked about accommodation, return tickets, funds for their stay, and insurance. Early reports suggested “medical insurance” was required, but Eurostar has clarified this was a translation error as the question should refer to travel insurance.
The UK government has confirmed that medical insurance will not be mandatory under EES. However, France does require third-country visitors to hold cover for medical expenses and repatriation, though checks at the border are rare.
The advice for UK travellers remains clear that while EES itself won’t make travel insurance compulsory, carrying comprehensive travel insurance with medical cover is strongly recommended to avoid unexpected costs abroad.
What UK Travellers Need to Know About Schengen Border Changes
With the EU set to implement the EES at Schengen border crossings, UK travellers will face additional requirements and potentially longer waits when entering countries including France, Spain, Italy, Portugal and Germany.
At digital kiosks, UK passengers will have their biometric details recorded and may be asked additional questions by border officers.
Expect to provide information such as:
- Purpose of travel
- Accommodation details
- Proof of return ticket
- Evidence of sufficient funds
- Valid travel insurance
While the system aims to speed up processing, delays are expected at the start. Being well-prepared will help. Travellers should keep key documents handy, such as hotel bookings, tickets, proof of finances, and insurance.
Though the new checks may add time to your journey, they are part of wider efforts to enhance border security and reduce illegal migration across Europe. For UK holidaymakers, the best way to ensure a smooth trip is simple, travellers should arrive prepared and carry comprehensive travel insurance.
Are you set for Europe’s EES rollout? Talk to us in the comment section below.
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Over the past 6+ years, with IaM, and working in the travel and immigration sector, Charlie has authored 200+ in-depth guides on Schengen, UK visas & other destinations they have relocated 1,000+ families safely through the system. A Clockwork Practitioner, Charlie also works hard to streamline operations and adheres to the mantra "Task Clients Well".
When they’re not translating policy into plain English, you’ll find them scouting new destinations, collecting local stories, and mastering a new language to better serve our global community.
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