British travellers are being urged to brace for significant delays and potential holiday disruption as the European Union prepares to roll out its new biometric border system this autumn. The long-awaited Entry/Exit System (EES) is set to transform how UK passport holders enter EU countries, and the changes could add hours to your journey.
What is the EU Entry/Exit System?
The EES represents the biggest shake-up to EU border controls in decades. This automated IT system will register non-EU travellers each time they cross an external EU border, replacing the manual passport stamping process currently in place.
The system will digitally record:
- Your name
- Passport details
- Biometric data including fingerprints and facial images
- Date and place of entry and exit
Why This Means Longer Queues
Unlike the current quick passport scan, the initial EES registration requires travellers to undergo biometric checks at dedicated kiosks. This process takes significantly longer than simply flashing your passport.
Travel industry experts are warning that the extra processing time could create massive bottlenecks, particularly at:
- Eurostar terminals at St Pancras
- Dover ferry port
- Major airports like Gatwick and Heathrow
- Eurotunnel terminals in Folkestone
Port authorities are particularly concerned about the impact on coach travellers, where entire groups will need to undergo individual registration simultaneously.
When Does It Start?
After multiple delays, the EES is now scheduled to become operational in October 2024. The exact launch date remains unconfirmed, but holidaymakers travelling during the autumn half-term and Christmas periods should prepare for the new system to be in place.
How to Prepare for Your Next EU Trip
Travel experts recommend allowing at least two to three hours extra for your journey to account for the new border procedures. This applies even if you're travelling to familiar destinations like France, Spain, or Italy.
Additional tips for smoother travel include:
- Arrive at stations and ports much earlier than usual
- Ensure all family members have valid passports
- Be prepared for the biometric registration process
- Consider travel insurance that covers missed connections
- Monitor official updates as the launch date approaches
While the system aims to enhance border security in the long term, the initial implementation period is expected to cause significant teething problems. British travellers who've grown accustomed to relatively seamless EU travel since Brexit may be in for an unpleasant surprise this autumn.
