The digital border regime replaces passport stamping with biometric checks for all non-EU travellers entering the Schengen area, including UK citizens. It will also enable stricter enforcement of the 90-days-in-180 rule, limiting the time UK passport holders can spend in the EU without a visa.
The RHA says the new system risks “business collapse” unless professional drivers are granted a specific exemption to allow them to continue cross-border work. Without such an arrangement, UK operators could be forced to cancel services once their drivers reach the 90-day limit.
“It’s likely that UK hauliers will go out of business without easements for drivers on international work,” the RHA said. “That means EU-based operators filling the gap – and then taking on more UK domestic work.”
The Association also warned of wider fiscal consequences, arguing that a shrinking international haulage sector would lead to lost fuel duty, Vehicle Excise Duty and HGV Levy income as more EU-registered vehicles handle UK-bound freight.
The 90/180-day restriction is already creating operational challenges for companies in both freight and passenger transport. Jason Edwards, managing director of Pontypridd-based Jason Edwards Travel and an RHA board member, told The Guardian that his 70-strong driver team was struggling to plan continental tours within the time limit.
“When our drivers are running out of days they can spend in the EU, they’ll have to turn down or cancel jobs if we can’t get anyone to backfill,” he said. “We need the EU to give us a special worker’s permit.”
The RHA argues that without a professional driver exemption or new visa arrangement, British hauliers will be disadvantaged compared with EU competitors who can operate freely across the Channel.
Industry bodies including the British International Freight Association (BIFA) have previously warned that the EES rollout could lead to border delays during the initial months of implementation. From 12 October, biometric checks will apply to freight and coach traffic at Dover and Eurotunnel, with full rollout to other travellers expected by spring 2026.
The UK government has said it is monitoring the situation and engaging with EU partners, but has not yet announced any progress toward securing an exemption for commercial drivers.
What drivers need to know
From 12 October, all UK passport holders entering the Schengen area must complete biometric registration under the EES.
- First-time travellers will need to scan their passport, provide fingerprints, and have a photo taken to create a digital record.
- Once registered, the record remains valid for three years or until the passport expires.
- The system will be introduced first for freight and coach traffic at Dover and Eurotunnel, then expanded to all travellers by spring 2026.
- Children under 12 will not need to provide fingerprints.
- Ireland and Cyprus are exempt from the new system.
For a full breakdown of how the EES works, including step-by-step guidance for professional drivers, read our detailed explainer:
EU Entry/Exit System starts 12 October: what UK drivers need to know
