If you are doing a Croatia Family adventure holiday, do check the current Government updates. Use the official Gov.uk Website: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/croatia

📅 When it will be fully operational

• The system is expected to be fully implemented by about 10 April 2026 across all Croatian border points.

I used chat to help me create a clear FAQ for the guests:

 What is the European Entry-Exit System (EES)?

The European Entry-Exit System (EES) is a new digital border system being introduced across Europe. It records when non-EU visitors enter and leave Europe, replacing traditional passport stamps.

Who does EES apply to?

EES applies to travellers from countries outside the EU, including:

• the UK
• the USA
• Australia

This includes families travelling with children.

What will happen at the border?

On your first trip after EES starts, border officials will:

• scan your passport
• take a photo
• collect fingerprints (adults and older children)

This is done at the airport or border crossing.

Future trips will usually be faster.

Does EES change how long we can stay?

No.
Families can still stay up to 90 days in any 180-day period in Europe, just as before.

EES simply records this digitally.

Is this a visa or something we apply for?

No.
EES is not a visa, and there is nothing to apply for in advance.

It happens automatically at the border.

Will this affect travelling with children?

Only slightly. The first border crossing may take a little longer, so we recommend allowing extra time at the airport. After that, travel should feel normal.

Travelling to Europe as a family — what’s changing at the border?

Europe is introducing a new digital border system called the Entry-Exit System (EES). It applies to UK, US and Australian families visiting Europe.

On your first trip after EES launches, passports will be scanned and a photo (and fingerprints for adults and older children) will be taken at the border. This replaces passport stamping and helps speed up future trips.

Importantly, nothing changes about how long families can stay in Europe, and there’s no form or visa to apply for in advance.

For most families, the only noticeable difference is allowing a little extra time at the airport on arrival.

New European border system — what you need to know

From 2025, Europe is introducing a new digital border system (EES) for UK, US and Australian travellers. This does notchange how long you can stay and does not require a visa or application. On your first trip, border checks may take slightly longer, so we recommend allowing extra time at the airport. After that, travel should feel just the same.

Here are other helpful recommended articles:

(1) What to do in Split for a 2 night stay? 48hrs in Split Article

(2) What to pack for family adventure holidays? Time To Pack

(3) Ned to find a Direct Flight to Split? Split Flights Blog

We hope this article has been useful. If you have any questions about your Family activity holiday in Croatia, please don’t hesitate to contact your 1-1 Travel manager!