ETIAS and EES Travel Update: What Cruise Passengers Need to Know for 2025-2026
In a previous blog, we discussed the upcoming European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) and what cruise passengers needed to know at that time. Since then, new updates have emerged regarding both ETIAS and the Entry/Exit System (EES), affecting how non-EU travellers will enter Schengen countries.
With ETIAS now delayed until late 2026 and EES scheduled to launch in October 2025, we’re providing this updated guide to help cruise travellers prepare for the coming changes.
For reference, you can read our previous ETIAS update here: Essential Travel Update: ETIAS – What We Know So Far
ETIAS: What’s Changed and When It’s Coming
What is ETIAS?
ETIAS is a pre-travel authorisation system for visa-exempt travellers visiting Schengen Area countries. It requires travellers from the United States, Canada, Australia, and other visa-exempt nations to apply online before their trip. It functions similarly to the US ESTA.
Updated Launch Date
Previously expected to launch in 2024 or early 2025, ETIAS has been delayed multiple times. The latest update states that ETIAS is now expected to launch in the last quarter of 2026.
What This Means for Cruise Passengers
ETIAS will not be required for the 2025 cruising season (April–October).
For most of the 2026 season, ETIAS is unlikely to be in effect.
Cruise passengers travelling in late 2026 should check for updates, as ETIAS could become mandatory during their trip.
Cruise travelers flying into Schengen airports from October 2025 should anticipate additional processing times due to biometric checks, a change that aligns with EES implementation (source: travel-europe.europa.eu). This procedural update is expected to impact both air and sea arrivals, with potential adjustments in port entry processes.
EES: The New Entry/Exit System Coming in Late 2025
What is EES?
The Entry/Exit System (EES) is a digital border control system replacing passport stamping in the Schengen Area. Instead, non-EU travellers will be required to provide biometric data (facial scans and fingerprints) when entering and exiting Schengen countries.
Updated Launch Date
The EES is now scheduled to launch in October 2025 and may result in longer wait times at border control while travellers and authorities adjust.
What This Means for Cruise Passengers
Travellers arriving in Europe by air (for cruise embarkation) may experience delays at border control starting in late 2025.
It remains unclear how EES will be applied at ports, but changes to cruise passenger processing may occur.
Anyone with connecting flights through Schengen airports should allow extra time for immigration clearance.
How This Fits with the European and British Isles Cruise Season
The European and British Isles cruising season runs from April to October, with peak months in June, July, and August. Here’s how these new travel policies align with the typical cruise season:
2025: No ETIAS required. EES launches in October, so travellers flying into Schengen countries for a cruise late in the season may experience delays at border control.
2026: ETIAS is unlikely to be required for most of the season, but late 2026 travellers should check for updates.
2027: ETIAS is expected to be fully implemented, requiring advance authorisation for all visa-exempt travellers visiting Schengen countries.
Final Takeaways for Cruise Travellers
For travellers visiting the UK as part of their cruise itinerary, it’s important to note that the UK now requires an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for non-visa nationals. While separate from ETIAS, the UK ETA applies to many of the same travellers. If your cruise includes both the UK and Schengen countries, you may need both an ETIAS and a UK ETA.
For a full breakdown of the UK ETA and how it affects cruise passengers, read our guide: Essential Travel Update: UK ETA Now Required for Cruise Guests
Cruising in 2025? No ETIAS required, but EES may cause airport delays from October onward.
Cruising in early to mid-2026? ETIAS is unlikely to be active, but EES will be in place.
Cruising in late 2026? Keep an eye on ETIAS updates, as it may launch before your trip.
British Isles cruises (UK and Ireland only) remain unaffected by ETIAS and EES.
Plan Your Cruise with Confidence
Understanding ETIAS and EES is essential for planning a smooth and stress-free cruise. Whether you're sailing the British Isles or exploring European ports, staying informed about these upcoming travel changes ensures a hassle-free experience.
If you're looking for expert-guided shore excursions that maximise your time ashore, explore our tours and book with confidence.
Click here to view our range of excursions from three Scottish ports.
