New EU Entry Rules To Affect Australian Travelers From Next Week

From 12 October 2025, Australians travelling to Europe can expect changes at the border — and possibly longer waiting times. The European Union is rolling out a digital Entry/Exit System (EES) across the Schengen area, replacing manual passport stamps with biometric and electronic controls.

What Changes Under the New Rules

Until now, visitors to Schengen countries—including Australians—would get their passports stamped upon arrival and departure. Under the new system:

• Non-EU nationals will need to register a digital identity on their first entry into the Schengen zone. This process involves fingerprinting, facial photography, and answering standard entry questions at border control.
• Once this digital profile is created, it will remain valid for three years. On subsequent trips within that period, travellers may only need a quick biometric or photo check rather than full re-registration.
• The system automates tracking of stays across the Schengen zone, enforcing the existing rule that non-EU visitors may spend up to 90 days in any 180-day period within those countries.
• Because of the new procedures, processing times at airports and land borders are expected to slow, especially during the initial rollout when officials adapt to new systems.

What the Schengen Zone Means for Travellers

The Schengen area comprises 29 European countries that allow passport-free movement among them. Destinations like France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Greece, Portugal, and Switzerland are part of this zone.

However, some popular European destinations lie outside the Schengen system, meaning travellers will not be subject to EES rules there. These include:

• The United Kingdom
• Ireland
• Turkey
• Croatia’s neighbouring non-Schengen nations, such as Serbia or Montenegro

Even under the new system, the core stay limit remains: travellers can still spend up to 90 days in any 180-day window within the Schengen states. Overstays can trigger fines, detention, or bans from entering the EU in the future.

Tips for Australian Travellers

To navigate the new rules smoothly, consider these tips:

1. Plan for extra time — expect longer queues at passport control, especially when the system is new.
2. Be ready for biometric registration — first-time entry into Schengen will require fingerprinting and photo capture.
3. Keep travel documentation handy — bookings, identity documents, and any supporting papers will help speed up checks.
4. Track your days carefully — the 90/180 rule is now enforced electronically, making overstays less forgiving.
5. Check if your destination is inside Schengen — you may avoid EES formalities altogether if visiting a non-Schengen country in Europe.

Why Accommodation Choices in Melbourne CBD Matter Too

For Australians planning trips to Europe, Melbourne often plays a connecting or stopover role. When staying in or departing from Melbourne, choosing the right accommodation becomes part of the travel equation. Serviced apartments in Melbourne CBD are an excellent option. They combine space, comfort, and amenities — offering full kitchens, laundry facilities, separate living spaces, and flexible stay durations. For instance, providers like Corporate Keys offer competitively priced serviced apartment options in Melbourne with weekly or monthly rates, making them ideal either for rest before a long flight or for accommodating delays caused by new border procedures.