Border Regulations Updates

Recent and planned updates to border regulations in the European Union and United Kingdom may affect your future travels. To help you prepare, we’ve gathered all the key information in one place. Whether you're travelling for leisure or business, it’s important to understand these changes and take any necessary steps to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey with us. Stay up to date with the latest developments, including details about the European Entry Exit System (EES), European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), UK eVisa, and the UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA).

For the latest travel updates, visit our live information page below.

The European Entry Exit System is currently being introduced on a rolling basis from 12 October 2025. This means that at some European entry points you may be required to register on the EES system and submit fingerprints and/or facial images. The full application of the system isn’t expected before mid-April 2026, therefore, your experience may vary between locations or at different times. There is no need to prepare in advance, but DFDS will endeavour to make customers aware of what to expect on their trip. This may be through advance emails or simply at check-in before travel to Europe or onboard our vessels.

Customers are advised to avoid online scam traders offering EES services. There is no charge in advance or at ports for EES. There will be a charge for ETIAS, which is expected to be introduced in Autumn 2026, and will be obtained directly from applying through official EU Channels. We will provide links when available.

For more information, visit the official EU websites: Official EES guidance

In addition to EES, most non-EU citizens will later require a travel authorisation (ETIAS) to enter most European countries. This is not currently expected to be introduced before Autumn 2026 and no action is required at this time. Customers are advised to avoid any websites offering such services and await the opening of EU official application platforms. This page will be updated in due course with such details.

Official ETIAS guidance

The UK has introduced the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for most non-Visa passengers, other than British and Irish Citizens.

To check your eligibility and apply, please visit www.gov.uk/electronic-travel-authorisation

Jersey will be introducing ETAs for travel to the Islands at a future date to be confirmed. Anyone travelling from France to Jersey before the introduction of the Jersey ETA will not require an ETA. Please see Visa, ETA and Passport requirements for travel to Jersey.

The UK is moving towards fully digital immigration documents, transitioning from physical documents like biometric residence permits, vignette stickers, and ink stamps, to eVisas.

• If you hold a UK visa and use a physical immigration document to prove your rights, take action now by creating a UK Visas and Immigration account to access your eVisa: www.gov.uk/eVisa.
• If you already have an eVisa, ensure your travel information is up to date by notifying the UK Government about the passport you intend to use if it is not already linked to your eVisa account: www.gov.uk/update-uk-visas-immigration-account-details.

Switching to digital documentation aims to simplify and secure border processes for travellers.

Preparing for your trip under the new border regulations is simple with the right steps. To avoid potential delays or issues, make sure you're ready well in advance. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth travel experience:

✔️ Check your eligibility for any required travel authorisations or documents.
✔️ Apply as early as possible for systems like ETIAS, ETA, or eVisas. Processing times can vary, so plan ahead.
✔️ Update your travel documents to ensure they’re valid and meet the new requirements.
✔️ Stay informed about the specific regulations that may apply to your route. Check official government websites for the latest updates.

Taking these steps will save time and simplify your travel. If you have questions, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Note: DFDS advises customers to use only the official UK Government website to obtain their UK ETA.

DFDS is fully preparing for the arrival of these new measures, cooperating with the relevant authorities to ensure that we continue to carry our passengers on their journeys without major disruption.

We will inform you of the travel requirements that will be applicable to you where those are known at the time of booking.  We will contact you with details of any updated information after booking. However, please note that it is the responsibility of passengers to ensure that they are in permission of the correct documentation and completed relevant formalities.