New Protocols for Non-EU Citizens travelling to the Schengen Area

In the first half of 2025, new travel protocols for non-EU citizens will be implemented across the Schengen Area, including two key systems that will affect travel to and from the European Union:

• Entry/Exit System (EES)
• European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS).

To navigate these upcoming changes, Evolution Agents offers a dedicated concierge service. Our expert team will assist you with all aspects of the application and monitoring process for EES and ETIAS, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free experience for guests, passengers, crew and yacht owners.

What is the Entry/Exit System (EES)?

The EES is a new automated system designed to register the entry and exit of non-EU citizens travelling to the Schengen Area. Travellers will have their personal data, travel dates and documents recorded digitally each time they enter or leave EU territory for a non-EU destination. This system replaces the traditional passport stamp, ensuring a more efficient and transparent process, especially for those who frequently move in and out of EU waters.

Additionally, the EES ensures compliance with the 90/180 rule for short stays, preventing overstays by tracking the duration of visits to the Schengen Area.

What is the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS)?

The ETIAS system will require non-EU visitors from over 60 visa-exempt countries, to apply for travel authorisation before arriving in the Schengen Zone.

While ETIAS is not a visa, it functions as a pre-travel screening to enhance security within EU borders. The process is simple, involving an online application, and approval is usually granted within minutes. However, it is essential to apply in advance.

From Evolution, through our agents on the ground, we will continue to provide personalised and professional assistance, assisting all non-EU crew with their embarkation or disembarkation process, dealing with the relevant Immigration officers and accompanying then through this new system.

Who should apply – European Union (europa.eu)

Yacht crew members and passengers planning to visit EU countries must apply for ETIAS authorisation online before their journey. Ensure your ETIAS authorisation is in place well before departure to avoid any delays or denied entry at ports.

How Do EES and ETIAS Impact vessels and crew movements?

For yacht agents and vessel operators, staying informed about EES and ETIAS requirements is vital for smooth transitions through EU ports. Both entry/exit registration and ETIAS authorisation will be obligatory of any planned sailing trips to avoid complications.

Contact Our Concierge Team

At Evolution Agents, our in-house team specialises in helping yacht management and crew navigate EES and ETIAS requirements. For direct assistance with these essential processes, contact us at hola@evolutionagents.com. 

Please note: The EES and ETIAS system are not yet operational. However, we expect the systems to be rolling out in certain EU entry/exit points before the end of the year. Evolution Agents will continue to keep clients updated as new details and timelines are released.

For more detailed information on EES and ETIAS, visit the European Travel Information website.