Navigating ETA, EES & ETIAS: What Business Travellers Need to Know

At arrangeMY, we know our clients value seamless, stress-free travel. But with major changes to border controls across the UK and EU, it’s essential to understand how new systems could affect upcoming business trips. Three acronyms in particular the UK’s ETA and Europe’s EES and ETIAS, are set to reshape the way travellers cross borders.

What is ETA (UK Electronic Travel Authorisation)

The UK’s Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme is live. From 2 April 2025, it became mandatory for most European nationals (except Irish citizens) who are visa-exempt.

• Cost: £16.
• Validity: Two years or until the passport expires.
• Who needs it: Visa-exempt foreign nationals visiting the UK for business, tourism, or short stays of up to six months. British and Irish citizens do not need an ETA.
• Application process: Apply online or via the ETA app – decisions usually arrive within three working days.

What is EES (Entry/Exit System) – EU / Schengen

From 12 October 2025, the EU will begin rolling out the Entry/Exit System (EES). This will gradually replace manual passport stamping for non-EU travellers. Instead, travellers will scan their passport and have a photo and four fingerprints captured on first entry, with biometric data stored for future crossings.

• Who it affects: UK citizens and other non-EU nationals visiting Schengen countries for short stays.
• Where it applies: Most EU countries plus Norway, Iceland, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein (not Ireland or Cyprus).
• Impact on travellers: The first trip after October 2025 may take longer due to registration, but subsequent crossings should be quicker. Delays are likely during the early rollout phase, so allow extra time.

What is ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System)

ETIAS is expected to go live in late 2026. Much like the US ESTA, it will require non-EU citizens, including UK passport holders, to apply online for pre-travel authorisation before entering Schengen countries.

• Cost: Expected around €20 for adults (final confirmation pending).
• Validity: Likely three years, or until the traveller’s passport expires.
• Impact on travellers: Applications should be quick for most people, but some may need extra checks. Business travellers should apply well in advance of departure once the system goes live.

What This Means for Business Travellers

These systems all reflect a shift towards digital border management, enhancing security while aiming to make travel more efficient once fully operational. For business travellers, however, they also mean new admin to consider before booking.

Here’s how to prepare:

• Check passports early: EES, ETIAS and ETA are all passport-specific. Renew in good time.
• Build in buffer time: Especially during the initial EES rollout, expect longer queues at busy borders.
• Apply in advance: For ETIAS and ETA, last-minute travel may not be possible without prior authorisation.
• Use your TMC: At arrangeMY, we’ll keep you informed, track requirements, and support your travellers every step of the way.

The Bottom Line

ETA, EES and ETIAS and are designed to create smoother, more secure borders, but the transition period may be bumpy. By planning ahead, briefing your employees, and leaning on arrangeMY’s expertise, your organisation can stay compliant and keep business travel running smoothly.

For more guidance on travel risk management and upcoming changes, speak with your arrangeMY Account Manager at account.management@arrangeMY.com