The new Schengen Entry/Exit System starts 12 October 2025
 

Gradual introduction until 2026, but it will mean all passengers from outside Schengen will be recorded digitally (fingerprints and facial image on first entry) - and no more passport stamping.

https://travel-europe.europa.eu/en/ees/faq##

Fingerprints or facial image scan I believe. Originally it was to be both but now one or the other.
It will be rolled out over 6 months, and once complete the ETIAS will come into force, sadly costing a lot more than originally announced - €20 rather than €7 for those within the paying age rage, (18-69) but required by all.
Eventually there will be an app you can use for EES to save time, but it isn't live yet.

All the info Patrick's link, and more if you go to the homepage.

I read the linked attachment. Other than having a biometric passport, will the EU countries require a pre-registration or entry fee like the UK with their ETA? We're headed there in May 2026.

We have tentative plans for Sicily and Malta in late March. Based on what I've read, we will not be affected other than fingerprints and the facial scan. DH is turning 70 in August 2026 so it's good to know he won't have to pay the next time he goes. I have a few years to go for the freebie, but that's OK.

As for the higher cost, it's roughly the same as the UK visa. The good news is the EU visa lasts 3 years, as opposed to 2 years for the UK.

Thanks for the info.

Editing: I thought so at first, but now I'm not sure. It's possible they mean that right now there's no pre-registration but there will be after April. I hope someone knows.

Check out #4:

https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fod...bc7c1f1020.jpg
See #4

No date has yet been given for the ETIAS implementation, just after everyone (except Cyprus) has rolled out the EES. You will need to keep an eye on things nearer your departure. Check the official EU sites - there are plenty of pond-living lowlifes already scamming people over it.
When a date is know it will also be posted on Fodors.
If you are under 18 or over 70 you still need the ETIAS when it introduced but you wont pay the now exorbitant €20.

Perfect. Thank you.

Perfect. Thank you. I'll keep an eye on any notifications. I'll need to notify my family to take care of any registration on their end before we travel.

Please tell your family about heti's good point about scammers. Be sure they are on the official website. If any website tries to charge more than €20, it's a scam.

The ETIAS website says it is projected to launch Q4 2026.

I signed up to get launch notification from ETIAS and don’t recall receiving anything yet. I think the website is legit. It will be interesting to see how it all works especially when it goes live.