TUI has issued an update on its website warning UK holidaymakers of potential longer queues at border control due to the upcoming Entry/Exit System (EES) for travel to the Schengen area. The new digital border system, expected to come into force on 10 November (or 17 November if delayed), will require Brits to register biometric details such as fingerprints and a photo upon arrival, replacing the current passport stamping process.
The travel giant advised that customers may face longer waits at border control, particularly on first use. TUI stated: 'When the EES is operational it's planned that all entry and exit movements will be registered electronically.' It reassured travellers that no additional steps are needed before travel, as the Advanced Passenger Information (API) form already completed will be used by airlines to send details.
TUI added: 'Upon arrival at your destination, the first time you use it might take a bit longer than usual to pass through border control as your biometric data (face image and four fingerprints) will be collected. Children under 12 will not have their fingerprints collected.' The company suggested passengers take extra water in case of delays.
The EES is designed to strengthen border security, reduce overstaying, and combat irregular migration in the Schengen region. The UK government has been working with the European Commission and member states to prepare ports, providing £3.5m each to Eurostar, Eurotunnel, and the Port of Dover for registration kiosks and infrastructure.
Eurostar will have 50 kiosks across three stations, Eurotunnel over 100 kiosks (adding about five minutes to journeys), and the Port of Dover 24 kiosks for coach passengers, with agents and tablets for car passengers. The Schengen area includes popular destinations such as Spain, France, Italy, Greece, and Germany.
