The EES app, explained
Yes, there is an official EES app — and a lot of fake ones. Here's exactly what the real "Travel to Europe" app does, what it can't do, where it works, and how UK travellers pre-register at Dover, Eurostar and Eurotunnel.
Is there an official EES app?
Yes — one, and only one: Travel to Europe, built by Frontex, the European Border and Coast Guard Agency. It lets non-EU travellers pre-register some of their EES details before reaching a border crossing point, so the kiosk step is quicker. It is free, voluntary, and available on the Apple App Store and Google Play.
What it does — and what it doesn't
✓ You can pre-register
- Your passport / travel document data
- A facial image (selfie)
- Answers to the standard entry-conditions questions
- Up to 72 hours before you arrive or leave
✗ You still do at the border
- Fingerprints — four prints, taken in person on your first entry (these cannot be pre-registered)
- The actual border check and entry decision
- Pre-registration does not guarantee entry
What you need to use it
- A biometric passport (the kind with a chip)
- A phone that can read the passport chip (NFC) and take a selfie (front camera)
- To be a non-EU national subject to EES, travelling to a country that has switched the app on
Where the EES app works right now
Availability is limited and rolling out gradually — pre-registration is optional for each country. Sweden (including Stockholm Arlanda) and Portugal were among the first to enable it, with more countries and border points being added over time. Frontex has signalled further pilots across countries such as France, Italy and the Netherlands during 2026. Because the list changes, check the official EES website for the latest before you rely on it.
How to download the real app
Confirm the publisher is the European Union / Frontex before installing. If an app or site asks for payment to register for EES, it is not legitimate.
UK travellers: Dover, Eurostar & Eurotunnel
There is no app for the cross-Channel routes. Instead you'll use self-service pre-registration kiosks:
- Eurostar — kiosks at London St Pancras International, before the ticket gates
- Eurotunnel Le Shuttle — a purpose-built pre-registration area at Folkestone
- Port of Dover — a dedicated EES processing area at the Western Docks
Follow your travel operator's directions on the day. As at airports, EES registration is free and there's nothing to apply for in advance.
EES app FAQ
Is there an official EES app?
Yes. The only official EES app is "Travel to Europe", developed by Frontex (the European Border and Coast Guard Agency). It is free and lets eligible non-EU travellers pre-register some of their details before they reach the border. Any app or website that charges a fee to "register for EES" is not official.
What does the Travel to Europe app actually do?
It lets you pre-register your passport (travel document) data, a facial image, and your answers to the standard entry-conditions questions, within 72 hours before you arrive or leave. That data is ready when you reach the kiosk, so the in-person step is shorter.
Can I register my fingerprints in advance?
No. Fingerprints cannot be pre-registered. On your first EES entry you still have to give four fingerprints at the border in the presence of a border guard. The app only saves the passport scan, facial image and questionnaire.
Which countries support the EES app?
Only a small number so far — Sweden (including Stockholm Arlanda) and Portugal were among the first, and more countries and border points are being added gradually. Pre-registration is optional for member states, so availability varies. Always check the official EES website for the current list before relying on it.
Is the EES app free, and does it guarantee entry?
It is completely free and voluntary. It does not replace border checks and does not grant an automatic right to enter — the final decision is always made by border officers when you arrive.
Is there an EES app for Dover, Eurostar or Eurotunnel?
No. UK departure points use self-service pre-registration kiosks instead of an app — at Eurostar (London St Pancras), Eurotunnel Le Shuttle (Folkestone) and the Port of Dover (Western Docks). Follow your travel operator’s directions on the day. EES registration is free and no advance action is required.
How do I avoid fake EES apps and scams?
Fake EES and ETIAS apps and websites are common, and some charge fees or harvest personal data. Only download "Travel to Europe" published by the European Union / Frontex on the official Apple App Store or Google Play, and never pay for EES registration — it is always free.