British tourists are being cautioned about potential delays as a new EU entry-exit system is implemented. Most travelers visiting a participating country for the first time will now need to register their biometric data at the EU border.
The Entry Exit System (EES) now requires non-EU citizens to have their passports scanned, and their fingerprints and photos taken before entering the Schengen area, which includes 25 EU member states along with Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland. Ireland and Cyprus travelers are exempt from this process, with the initial phase starting on October 12.
The UK government advises that while the checks are expected to take one to two minutes per person, longer wait times at border control are likely upon arrival in the Schengen area. Experts suggest potential delays of up to four hours.
Julia Lo Bue-Said, CEO of Advantage Travel Partnership, recommends allocating four hours for navigating the new system at major airports in southern Europe during the initial stages. She warns of possible overwhelming traveler volumes initially but expects the situation to improve as people become accustomed to the new procedures.
Rory Boland from Which? Travel suggests preparing for longer waits at border control by allowing extra time for transfers or onward travel upon landing.
The Home Office explains that the new system will be gradually implemented over six months until April 2026, with varying requirements at different ports. The phased approach aims to minimize disruptions, especially during busy periods.
Minister for Aviation, Maritime, and Decarbonisation, Keir Mather, has allocated £10.5 million to support ports and operators in adjusting to the new Entry/Exit System and ensuring smooth operations at border crossings.
The EES process is free, requiring no changes for travelers before their trip. Although children under 12 are exempt from fingerprinting, all travelers will have their photos taken and digital records created.
The EES aims to eventually replace passport stamping for non-EU citizens to track compliance with the 90-day visa-free travel rule and enhance border control for quicker, more efficient crossings in the future.
A government awareness campaign was launched to prepare Brits for the system rollout, disseminating public messages through social media, transport operators, and travel websites. Updated information is available on GOV.UK and FCDO’s Travel Aware pages.