Starting on 12 October 2025 the EU’s Entry/Exit System (EES) has began to record most non-EU visitors to the Schengen area (passport data, photo,v fingerprints  taken for first-time entrants….). This will eventually replace passport stamps and will automatically track days spent in Schengen (90 days in any 180-day period).

Travellers from the UK and other non-EU countries may now be photographed and fingerprinted on entry to Schengen; British citizens who hold a French residence permit are usually exempt  but always carry your residence card and passport.

1) British expats living in France but retaining British nationality

If you hold a valid French residence permit (carte de séjour) or long-stay visa:

You are exempt from EES registration when returning to France — show your residence permit at the border instead of going through EES. Keep your residence card with your passport.

If you do NOT have a valid French residence permit (for example: you live in France but don’t have formal residency documents):
you will be treated as a visitor and must register in EES on entry (passport scan, photo; fingerprints on first registration). To avoid problems, carry evidence that you live in France (proof of address, pension letter) and, if possible, regularise your residency.

What to do:
always carry passport + residence permit / carte de séjour when moving across a border. If returning from a trip, use the residence-permit lane or show it to border police.

2) British residents holidaying in France (live in the UK, holiday in France)

EES applies

On your first entry at an EES-enabled border point you will be asked to scan your passport and have a photo taken; fingerprints will be taken the first time you enter under EES. Afterwards, checks are quicker (biometric verification).

What to do:
Bring your valid passport (make sure it’s in good condition and valid for the trip).
Allow extra time at the border (some places may have queues).
Keep proof of return travel, accommodation, and travel insurance handy in case border police ask (these checks already happen sometimes).

3) British residents visiting holiday homes in France (frequent visitors / owners)

EES applies to visitors unless you hold an EU residence permit. EES will automatically count the days you spend in Schengen — frequent short trips can add up to an overstay.

What to do:
Track your days: don’t exceed 90 days in any 180-day period. Ask your family or a friend to help if counting is difficult.
Carry passport + proof of ownership/booking for the holiday home and a return ticket. If you’re >90 days per 180 days, you need a long-stay visa or residence permit.

4) French nationals visiting the UK

EES does not apply to EU citizens entering the EU

— but for travel to the UK you must follow UK entry rules. Most EU citizens (including French) need a passport to enter the UK (or in very limited cases a national ID card — check GOV.UK). French nationals do not need an ETA (UK electronic travel authorisation) if they hold a British or Irish passport or other exemptions; otherwise check GOV.UK guidance for your exact case.

What to do:
carry your passport and check GOV.UK “Visiting the UK” page before travel; allow time at UK border controls.

5) Other nationalities entering / returning to France (or the Schengen area)

If you are a non-EU national

(e.g., US, Canadian, Australian, etc.) visiting Schengen for short stays: EES applies. First entry = passport scan + photo + fingerprints; later entries = quick biometric checks. Data is stored for three years from exit.

What to do:
Bring valid passport (biometric passport preferred), proof of return/exit, accommodation, travel insurance, and evidence of funds if asked. Allow extra time at busy crossings.
If you have a residence permit issued by a Schengen country, you are normally exempt from EES—show the residence permit.

6) Other nationalities entering / returning to the UK

From the UK side,

many visitors now require an ETA (electronic travel authorisation) or a visa depending on nationality. Check gov.uk/eta to see whether your nationality needs an ETA (cost and simple online application). Carry passport and ETA (if required).

SIMPLE CHECKLIST FOR EVERYONE

✔️ Passport (check expiry date)
✔️ Residence card (if you live in France)
✔️ Return ticket and address where staying
✔️ Travel insurance
✔️ Medication and prescriptions in hand luggage
✔️ Allow extra time at the border
✔️ Ask for help if you have mobility or hearing difficulties

If something goes wrong at the border

If asked to register and you refuse biometrics, you may be denied entry — the EES is mandatory for affected travellers.

If you are a resident and there’s confusion, show your residence permit and ask for a supervisor. If still refused, contact your embassy/consulate (UK consulate if British) for help.

IN SHORT…

If you live in France with a residence card: nothing changes.
If you visit from the UK: your photo and fingerprints will be taken the first time you enter.
If you visit often: EES will count your days in France for you.
If you’re French visiting the UK: EES doesn’t apply — just UK rules.

WISHING YOU SAFE (& UNCOMPLICATED) TRAVELS!

Reader’s comment (Thank you Richard)

Girona Airport Tuesday 14 Oct 2025, the border police were completely unaware that residence permit holders were not obliged to register with EES. Took me four hours to convince them. Carry a proof of address in France as well as your passport and carte de séjour.