If you’re planning a trip to Europe this year and travelling via Bromley airport transfers — whether you’re heading to Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted or London City Airport — there are new EU border entry rules you need to know about.
From October 2025, the European Union’s new Entry/Exit System (EES) will come into effect, changing how British travellers enter and leave the EU’s Schengen Area. Here’s everything you need to know — plus practical travel and airport transfer tips to make your journey from Bromley stress-free.
🛂 What Is the EU Entry/Exit System (EES)?
The EU Entry/Exit System is a new digital border control system designed to replace the old passport-stamping process. Instead of manual checks, all non-EU travellers (including UK citizens) will now have their travel details stored electronically each time they cross an EU border.
When you first arrive in a Schengen country (such as France, Spain, Italy, or Germany), you’ll need to:
- Have your passport scanned.
- Provide biometric data — a quick facial image and fingerprints (for travellers aged 12 and over).
- Register your entry and exit details, which remain valid for three years or until your passport expires.
The EES system will apply to all air, sea, and land borders entering the Schengen Zone.
🚗 What This Means for Bromley Airport Transfer Customers
If you’re booking a Bromley airport taxi or private airport transfer to reach your European flight, this new system could affect your travel timings and airport routine.
1. Allow More Time at the Airport
The biometric registration may take a few extra minutes during the rollout phase. While it’s designed to speed up travel long-term, early travellers may face queues — especially at major EU airports like Paris, Amsterdam, and Madrid.
✅ Tip: Book your Bromley airport transfer slightly earlier to ensure you arrive at least 3 hours before your departure time for EU flights.
2. Expect Slightly Longer Arrivals in Europe
If Bromley Airport Transfers are collecting you after an EU flight, let them know about the possible delay at passport control. For example, when flying from London Gatwick to Malaga or Rome, the new biometric checks could extend your time between landing and reaching arrivals.
✅ Tip: Share your flight details with your Bromley airport transfer service, so they can monitor your arrival in real time and adjust pickup accordingly.
3. Smooth Departures from Bromley and Beyond
Whether you’re travelling for business or a family holiday, reliable airport transfers from Bromley ensure a smooth start. The key is communication — update your transfer provider with any travel changes and allow a little extra buffer for EES checks at your destination.
✅ Tip: When booking, mention that your destination is in the EU so your driver knows the timing considerations.
🌍 Who Is Affected by the EU Entry/Exit Changes?
The new EES applies to:
- UK passport holders travelling to Schengen countries (most of continental Europe).
- Short-stay visitors entering the EU for tourism, family visits, or business.
- Travellers arriving by air, sea, or land (including Eurotunnel crossings).
It does not apply to:
- Travel to Ireland, Cyprus, or other non-Schengen EU destinations.
- EU citizens or residents with EU passports or ID cards.
🕒 In Summary
The EU Entry/Exit System (EES) introduces new biometric checks for British travellers entering the Schengen Zone from October 2025. While the process adds an extra step at border control, it’s designed to enhance security and streamline travel in the long run.
For Bromley airport transfer customers, the key is to plan ahead, book early, and allow more time for your journey. A reliable transfer service will help ensure your trip from Bromley to Europe — whether for business or leisure — runs smoothly from doorstep to departure gate.
