Greece has decided to suspend the EU requirement for British passport holders to provide fingerprints and facial scans at airport border controls, a move aimed at preventing further travel chaos. The European Union's Entry/Exit System (EES) had been causing significant delays, with reports of up to four-hour waits and missed flights at airports across Europe.
In a statement, the Greek Embassy confirmed the exemption, stating: "In the framework of the implementation of the Entry/Exit System, as of 10 April 2026, British passport holders are exempt from biometric registration at Greek border crossing points." The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) updated its travel advice on 20 April, noting that Greek authorities will not collect biometric data from UK travellers as part of EES, and advising residents to show residence documentation.
With the relaxation of rules, travellers can take advantage of cheap flights to Greek destinations. According to Skyscanner, one-way flights from London to Kos start at £20 in April, while Chania in Crete offers fares from £17 from London in May. Corfu is also affordable, with one-way flights from London priced at £18 in May.
Kos is renowned for its golden-sand beaches, charming villages, and ancient ruins, and is the birthplace of Hippocrates. Chania boasts a Venetian harbour, historic old town, and nearby pink-sand beaches like Elafonisi. Corfu features turquoise waters, sandy beaches, and a UNESCO World Heritage town. Spring temperatures range from 20°C in April to 25°C in May, making it an ideal time for a Greek getaway.
