The following message has been distributed to us by the British Consul in Marseille. Please take the time to read the information contained and contact the relevant organisations if you require further information.
I’m writing to inform you about the upcoming launch of the European Union’s new Entry/Exit System (EES), which will become operational on 12 October. You can find official details here: EES – European Union (europa.eu) and EU Entry/Exit System – GOV.UK.
We’ve updated our Living in France – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) guide with key information about the EES. Under this new system, non-EU nationals, including UK nationals visiting the Schengen area, will be required to create a digital record at the border. This includes submitting biometric data (fingerprints and a facial image).
However, UK nationals with rights under the Withdrawal Agreement will be exempt from EES registration, provided they hold the correct documentation. To qualify for exemption, UK nationals residing in France must present a valid residence permit. Renewals of Withdrawal Agreement beneficiary residence permits are currently being processed by local Prefectures.
We would greatly appreciate your help in sharing this information with your members and the wider British community in your area. The Living in France Guide outlines what British nationals need to know, including accepted documents and exemptions. Notably, residents in France with children under 18 must apply for a DCEM card to exempt their children from EES registration. Instructions for applying are available in the “Passports and Travel” section of the guide.
We’ll continue to update our France travel advice – GOV.UK and share updates via
our social media channels:
Our Deputy Head of Mission has also posted a helpful video on Facebook. Additionally, the British Community Committee of France (britishinfrance.com) has included EES information on their website.
Thank you in advance for helping us raise awareness.
Kind regards,
British Consul