Eurostar & the New EU Entry-Exit System (EES): What UK Travellers Need to Know

From 12 October 2025, the EU’s Entry-Exit System (EES) will go live. This new digital border system replaces passport stamping for non-EU travellers (like UK visitors), recording biometric data (photo + fingerprints) at the first point of entry.

Impact on Eurostar passengers

• At London St Pancras, new kiosks will take your biometrics and ask a few questions before boarding.
• You may be asked to show:
  • proof of accommodation
  • return or onward ticket
  • sufficient funds
  • medical insurance (this last one is not an EU-wide rule).

Why France is different

• The checks are being enforced by French border officers at the UK-based border (the “juxtaposed controls” at St Pancras).
• The European Commission has confirmed that medical insurance is not legally required under Schengen or EES rules, but French border police have decided to apply it as a condition for entry.
• This means that travellers heading to France via Eurostar could face stricter questioning than those entering the Schengen Zone elsewhere.

Key takeaway for travellers

• Bring proof of accommodation, return ticket, and travel insurance when travelling on Eurostar to Paris.
• This is part of EES rollout, but the extra insurance requirement is France-specific, not EU-wide.
• UK Government advises insurance is strongly recommended, but not mandatory under EU law.