ABTA Launches a Dedicated EES and ETIAS Information Hub for Members and Travellers

ABTA – The Travel Association has published new information for members and travellers on the introduction of the EU's Entry/Exit System (EES) and the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), designed to help them prepare for, and understand, the changes ahead. The EES is a new electronic system that will replace the physical stamping of passports on arrival into EU and Schengen countries, while ETIAS is the EU's new travel authorisation that travellers will need to apply for ahead of their trips.

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Why ABTA is acting now

As these are two significant changes affecting some of the UK's most popular travel destinations, ABTA says it is important that members are aware of what is happening and what it will mean for their customers. The association noted that, at the time of publishing, the dates for the introduction of EES and ETIAS had not yet been confirmed by the EU, with EES expected in autumn 2024 and ETIAS scheduled to follow in mid-2025. Publishing early gives the trade time to absorb the detail and answer customer questions with confidence.

Graeme Buck, Director of Communications at ABTA, said the two systems were "big changes coming down the line which members and travellers will need to adapt to." He added that, while many details were still not available, ABTA was keen to share what it knew so far to help members consider what the systems might mean for their businesses and their customers.

What the hub offers, for members and consumers

To support the trade, a new hub specifically on EES and ETIAS has been published in the ABTA Member Zone. This exclusive content for members features a Q&A document addressing questions members have raised about the introduction of the new schemes, and ABTA will use the hub to keep members informed as further details become available. The association added that it is working closely with the EU departments responsible for implementing the changes, who recognise ABTA as a key partner in getting information to the UK travel trade.

Alongside the members' resources, ABTA has also published new online advice for consumers, which will continue to be updated as more information emerges. The main purpose of publishing the consumer advice well ahead of the systems' introduction is to give members a trusted place to refer customers who have questions. If you want to start your own preparations, you can review the steps and apply when the time comes via the ETIAS application guide.