Greece has decided to maintain its unilateral suspension of biometric border checks for British visitors until the European Union's entry-exit system (EES) is improved, according to the country's tourism minister. Olga Kefalogianni told The Independent that Athens aims to ensure this facilitation extends beyond the current year.
Background on the EES
Since 10 April, the European Commission has required that third-country nationals, including British travellers, have their details registered on a central database when crossing Schengen area borders. On the first entry or exit, four fingerprints and a facial biometric are collected; on subsequent crossings, only one biometric, usually the face, is needed.
Despite Brussels officials stating that all Schengen nations were ready for EES, British visitors have faced long waits at some European airports, with some required to provide fingerprints multiple times and even missing flights due to lengthy queues.
Greece's Unilateral Decision
Under EES legislation, member states can briefly suspend biometrics at points where queues build up, but Greece took a unilateral step to drop the biometric requirement entirely for British visitors. Ms Kefalogianni explained, “We really want our travellers to have the best experience, and we understand that any inconvenience would create frustration.”
She added that the system has been facilitated to avoid bureaucracy, allowing British citizens to enter and exit within a minute. The move was expected to prompt immediate action from the European Commission, but none has been taken so far.
Impact on Tourism
Data from the Advantage Travel Partnership shows that sales of summer holidays to Greece have overtaken those for mainland Spain. Ms Kefalogianni emphasised that Greece aims to abide by Schengen rules while ensuring a fuss-free experience for visitors.
One reason for the EES issues is the failure of member states to adopt a Europe-wide app. The optional “Travel to Europe” app allows passport data and facial image submission, but only Sweden has fully adopted it. Portugal uses it in a limited role, and the EU says other countries may make it available later.
Future Plans
Ms Kefalogianni stated that technology should be used to ease bureaucracy. Greece does not intend to collect biometrics until a better system is developed. Data sleuth Dr Nick Brown noted that the Commission may not let this exception last long, but the minister believes all European partners share the interest in facilitating British visitors' entry and exit.
She concluded, “What is important for travellers is to know for a fact that they will not face any delays or any burden when entering or exiting Greece.”
