The Port of Dover is working closely with our French border agency partners to ensure a smooth introduction of the EU Entry/Exit System (EES) for tourist passengers in early 2026.  We have a shared determination to take advantage of the opportunities offered by the gradual ramp-up period and not to cause any significant changes for passengers just before the busy end-of-year period.

Significant progress has been made through joint planning and testing, to streamline new digital border checks and minimise disruption for travellers. The successful implementation of EES for coach, freight and foot passengers in October has resulted in nearly 13,000 profiles being successfully created.  We understand that Dover accounts for more than 30% of all registrations made by French seaports since 12 October.  This also exceeds the intended target for this period of implementation, and firmly demonstrates the success of our collective efforts thus far.

Together, we are confident this partnership approach will deliver an efficient and positive experience for passengers as the full EES programme comes online.

Passengers are advised to stay informed via updates from their ferry operator as the rollout approaches and to allow extra time for their journey during the transition period.

ENDS

Notes to editors

• The Port of Dover is closing the gap every day between the UK and the world by connecting trade, travel, visitors and communities locally-globally, collaborating with local and international partners to create a more seamless, sustainable and tech-enabled port.
• As the UK’s busiest international ferry port and a vital gateway for the movement of people and trade, Dover handles £144 billion of trade per year, 33% of UK trade in goods with the EU and welcomes over 11 million passengers.
• Dover is an award-winning cruise port, delivering world class travel and visitor experiences to over 20 different cruise lines each year. With a growing and diversifying cargo business operating from state-of-the-art facilities, a new marina which is at the centre of the revived waterfront, plus opportunities for further expansion in the future, Dover’s proud history dating back 400 years has a new modern twist.