The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) refreshed its France travel advice page at 00:01 BST on 25 September, reiterating that the EU’s automated Entry-Exit System (EES) will replace passport stamping from October. Although the underlying guidance was last substantively amended on 11 August, the ‘still current’ date has been advanced to 25 September following routine security vetting triggered by today’s papal visit and related border measures. Under EES, all non-EU visitors—including UK nationals—will have four biometric data points captured on their first arrival each 90-day cycle. The FCDO notes that operators at the Port of Dover and Eurotunnel have begun live-testing self-service kiosks; travellers should factor in additional processing time, particularly at peak commuter slots. For those who rely on Passport Stamping Records (PSR) to track permissible stay, the advice is explicit: download and retain the system’s digital exit record, as ink stamps may no longer be available to resolve overstay disputes. The bulletin also reminds business travellers that remote-working from France, even for short periods, counts toward the 90/180-day Schengen allowance unless backed by a local work authorisation. Human-resources departments are urged to audit assignee travel histories prior to Q4 board meetings usually held in Paris and Lyon. From a compliance standpoint, the refreshed note dovetails with HMRC guidance on social-security coverage for UK employees posted to France. Without accurate EES records, employees risk difficulty proving periods of French presence when applying for A1 certificates or tax exemptions under the Trade and Cooperation Agreement. Companies should therefore integrate the EES digital receipt into their travel-expense reporting systems. Although the FCDO retains its benign ‘no special measures’ security rating for France, it now flags potential delays this weekend associated with Pope Léon XIV’s events. British Chambers of Commerce France recommends firms distribute the new link to all travellers by the close of business today.
