EasyJet has issued an important update for British holidaymakers flying to popular European destinations including France, Spain, and Portugal. As the May half-term and summer holidays approach, thousands of Brits are expected to travel abroad, but new border control systems could cause significant delays.
New EU Entry/Exit System (EES) Launched
The European Union's Entry/Exit System (EES) was fully launched across airports on 10 April 2026. This system requires all British travellers entering the Schengen area to create a digital record and submit biometric data, including fingerprints and a photograph. The initial registration must be completed upon first arrival at a Schengen border, and the record remains valid for three years.
Since the rollout, reports indicate delays of up to three hours and missed flights as passengers adapt to the new digital border system.
EasyJet's Advice for Passengers
EasyJet has advised passengers to expect longer waiting times at passport control in European airports. The airline stated: "Airports across Europe may experience longer waiting times at passport control due to the new European Entry/Exit System (EES). This could mean you need to have your biometrics taken at border checks, including the scanning of facial images and fingerprints."
To ensure a smooth journey, EasyJet recommends:
- Download the easyJet app for live flight updates, including gate opening times.
- Ensure you have the correct travel documents.
- If travelling with hold luggage, arrive in time for bag drop; opening times are available in the app or booking details.
- Allow extra time at your destination airport, as extended wait times may affect onward travel plans.
- Be aware that additional checks may apply at departure airports when leaving the EU.
- Note that there may be further passport control checks after security and before reaching the gate.
The airline emphasised that it may not be able to wait for delayed passengers, even if the wait is longer than usual. Therefore, travellers are strongly advised to arrive at the airport with plenty of time to spare.
Schengen Area Countries
The full list of Schengen area countries includes Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.
Exception for Greece
Notably, the EES does not currently apply to Greece, despite it being part of the Schengen area. The Greek Embassy announced that British passport holders are exempt from biometric registration at Greek border crossing points. The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) updated its travel guidance for Greece on 20 April, stating: "Greek authorities have indicated that they will not collect biometric data (fingerprints and photos) for UK travellers as part of EES. Follow the advice of authorities on the ground. If you are a resident in Greece, make sure to show your residence documentation at passport control to ensure you are not registered in EES."
For more information on the EES, visit the Travel to Europe website or the Foreign Office website.
