2026 is a significant year for anyone travelling to or within Europe. The European Union is rolling out major changes to how it manages border crossings — and these changes affect every non-EU citizen, including the millions of South Asians living in and visiting Europe. Here is everything you need to know.

THE ENTRY/EXIT SYSTEM (EES) — ALREADY LAUNCHED

The EU's new Entry/Exit System (EES) officially launched on 12 October 2025 and is being rolled out across all Schengen countries throughout 2026. This is the biggest change to European border control in decades.

What does EES mean for you? Instead of having your passport stamped at the border, you will now have to provide biometric data — your fingerprints and a facial scan — every time you enter or exit the Schengen Area. This applies to ALL non-EU nationals, whether you are a tourist, a business traveller, or a resident of a non-Schengen country visiting from outside.

For South Asians living in EU countries with a valid residence permit, EES will record your entries and exits. This helps authorities track visa overstayers but does not change your rights if you have valid documentation.

Expect longer queues at border crossings, especially at major airports, during the 2026 rollout period.

ETIAS — THE NEW EUROPEAN TRAVEL AUTHORISATION (COMING LATE 2026)

ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) is similar to the US ESTA system. It will require visa-exempt travellers from certain countries to apply online for permission before entering the Schengen Area. The cost will be €20 and it will be valid for 3 years.

ETIAS is expected to launch in late 2026. It primarily affects nationalities that are currently visa-exempt for Europe — such as Singapore, Malaysia, and some other countries. Citizens of Bangladesh, India, and Pakistan already require a Schengen visa, so ETIAS does not directly affect you — you still need to apply for a full Schengen visa as before.

UK ELECTRONIC TRAVEL AUTHORISATION (ETA) — NOW MANDATORY

The UK introduced mandatory Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) from February 2026 for visa-exempt travellers. The ETA costs £16 and is valid for 2 years. This affects travellers from countries like Singapore and Malaysia who previously could visit the UK without prior authorisation.

Citizens of Bangladesh, India, and Pakistan who require a UK visa are not affected by ETA — they continue to apply for visas as normal.

SCHENGEN VISA APPLICATION — KEY TIPS FOR 2026

If you are applying for a Schengen tourist visa from Portugal, France, Germany, or another EU country to travel within the Schengen Zone, here are the most important tips for 2026:

Apply early — processing times have increased due to high demand. Apply at least 3 months before your travel date.

Show strong ties to your country of residence — bank statements, employment contracts, property ownership, and family ties all help demonstrate that you will return.

Book refundable accommodation and flights — you need to show confirmed bookings but should not pay for non-refundable tickets before your visa is approved.

Travel insurance is mandatory — it must cover at least €30,000 medical expenses within the Schengen Area.

Use trusted travel agents and visa consultants — many experienced professionals listed on BDGOL.COM can help you prepare a strong application.

WHAT ABOUT TRAVELLING BETWEEN EU COUNTRIES?

If you have a valid residence permit for any EU Schengen country (such as Portugal, France, or Germany), you can generally travel freely within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Always carry your residence card and passport when travelling.

STAYING INFORMED

European immigration and travel rules change frequently. The best way to stay informed is to follow official government websites, trusted community groups, and BDGOL.COM — where we regularly publish updates relevant to the Asian community in Europe.

Need help with your visa or travel authorisation? Find experienced immigration consultants and travel agents on BDGOL.COM.

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