The European Union is set to introduce a new digital Entry/Exit System (EES) in October 2025, replacing the traditional passport stamping process for non-EU nationals.
UK citizens will be among those affected by this change when visiting the Schengen area.
Under the new system, Britons and other non-EU nationals will need to register and provide biometric data when entering the EU's Schengen Zone.
This will include both fingerprints and a facial image as part of the registration process.
Britons in Portugal were advised to carry their residence cards when travelling
GETTY IMAGESThe system marks a significant shift in how border control operates for UK nationals travelling to EU countries following Brexit.
In light of this, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has shared what this means for British nationals living in Portugal.
Those who were resident in the EU before January 1, 2021, should apply for a Withdrawal Agreement residence card.
A Withdrawal Agreement residence card shows that you have the rights defined in the Withdrawal Agreement and proves your right to enter and remain in Portugal as a resident.
It also exempts holders from the requirements of the EES and European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) - once they are introduced - as well as from visa requirements.
UK citizens who moved to Portugal after January 1, 2021, need to apply for a residence card under the general immigration regime.
The FCDO advised that these residence cards should be carried when travelling.
Failure to present the correct documentation may result in "difficulties" when entering or exiting Portugal and other Schengen Zone countries.
The British Embassy in Portugal cannot assist UK nationals who are denied entry because they lack the proper documents.
For further information on living in Portugal, including visas and residency, passports and travel, healthcare, employment, taxes and more, Britons should consult the FCDO's detailed guide entitled 'Living in Portugal'.
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Britons living in Portugal should stay up to date with the FCDO's latest guidance
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Ahead of the EES system launch, Britons in Spain were given a similar travel update.
Expats were advised that they must have a TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero) - which is the biometric residency card required for British nationals living in Spain post-Brexit.
It's important to note that the system is not currently in operation and is expected to start in October 2025. Its specific start date will be announced by the European Union several months before its launch.
For more information, Britons can visit the official EES website: https://travel-europe.europa.eu/ees_en.
