Flight Preps and EES

Flight Preps and EES




Get the Travel To Europe Entry Exit System app to pre-register 72 hrs before arrival. 
Still need to follow the EES process on first arrival into the Schengen Zone.
Great Britain now requires a transit visa, even if not leaving the internation zone in the airport.
Word of advice: avoid Heathrow and Gatwick. Check conditions at other airports in the UK.

Checklist for the Flight to Madrid


Buy plane tickets: Done
    Rochester NY (4:29 pm) -> NYC Kennedy ( 5:59 pm - 8:20 pm 1.5 hr layover) -> Madrid (next day (9:55 am)
    Madrid (9:50 am) -> Atlanta ( 3:27 pm - 5:33 pm 2 hr layover) -> Rochester NY (5:33 pm)
    
Passport / TSA Precheck / Global Entry: Done. At least six months valid at end of travel.

EES  needed / ETIAS not needed ( entry / exit from Europe )

Travel Insurance / Health Insurance: Done
Assistance Phone Number
$1,000,000 Repatriation
$250,000 Medical
The usual trip interruption / lost baggage etc

Pilgrim Credentials : don't need as we are not walking this time

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(Start AI-generated)

The EU's Entry/Exit Conditions

The EU's Entry/Exit System (EES)

Launched in 2026 and registers non-EU nationals entering the Schengen Area, replacing manual passport stamping and enabling electronic monitoring of entries and exits.

Here's a more detailed breakdown:
What is EES?
The EES is a digital border management system designed to modernize border controls in the Schengen area, making it easier to identify travelers who overstay their permitted time and prevent identity fraud.

Who will it affect?
The EES will apply to all non-EU nationals, including those from the United States, who are traveling to the Schengen area for short stays (up to 90 days in a 180-day period).

How will it work?
The EES will register the traveller's name, biometric data (fingerprints and facial images), and the date and place of entry and exit.

Why is it being introduced?
The EES aims to improve border security, prevent irregular migration, and facilitate legitimate travel.

What about ETIAS?
The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) is another system that will be implemented by the EU, but it is expected to launch six months after the EES, likely in the last quarter of 2026.

What are the benefits?
The EES will allow for a wider use of automated border control checks and self-service systems, which are quicker and more comfortable for travelers.

What are the challenges?
The EES rollout has faced serious challenges in many airports, creating significant delays at times. Concerns about wait times at border crossings are proving justified, with infrastructure issues occurring on a somewhat regular basis.

European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS)

A new travel requirement for visa-exempt travelers to Europe, is expected to launch in late 2026, following the launch of the Entry/Exit System (EES).

What is ETIAS?
ETIAS is an online travel authorization system designed to enhance border security for travelers to the European Union (EU) who do not require a visa.

Who needs it?
Nationals of 59 countries and territories, including the United States, Canada, and Australia, who currently enjoy visa-free travel to Europe will need to obtain an ETIAS before traveling.

When will it launch?
The ETIAS launch has been pushed back to late 2026, six months after the Entry/Exit System (EES) is fully operational.

How to apply?
Travelers will need to apply for an ETIAS online through the official ETIAS website or mobile app.

Key Points:

ETIAS is not yet in operation and no action is required from travelers at this point.

The EU will inform travelers several months before the ETIAS launch.

Having a valid ETIAS does not guarantee automatic entry into the EU.

Official Website:
The official ETIAS website is europa.eu/etias. 
End of AI-generated

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Date13 July 2026
Total All Caminos:2450 miles
Total Lodging:
Total Airplane(s) / Trvl Insrnc:$ 1000 / $ 199
Total Transportation:$ 1000






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