British holidaymakers could face significant delays and extra costs when travelling to Europe under new EU border rules set to take effect next year. The Entry/Exit System (EES) will require non-EU visitors, including UK citizens, to undergo fingerprinting and facial recognition checks upon arrival.
What Is Changing?
The European Union is rolling out its new Entry/Exit System (EES) in 2025, replacing manual passport stamping with automated biometric checks. This means British travellers will need to:
- Provide fingerprints
- Submit to facial recognition scans
- Potentially face longer queues at borders
Why Is This Happening?
The changes are part of the EU's broader security strategy following Brexit. The system aims to:
- Track overstayers more effectively
- Improve border security
- Streamline entry for registered travellers
Potential Impact on British Travellers
Experts warn that the new system could cause:
- Lengthy delays at busy airports and ports
- Additional paperwork requirements
- Possible need for earlier arrival times
Travel industry representatives have expressed concerns about the implementation, particularly at busy crossing points like the Port of Dover and Eurostar terminals.
What Should You Do?
To minimise disruption, travellers are advised to:
- Check latest requirements before booking trips
- Allow extra time for border procedures
- Ensure passports have sufficient validity
- Consider applying for ETIAS authorisation when it becomes available
The changes come alongside the upcoming European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), which will require pre-travel authorisation for visa-free visitors to the Schengen Area.
