British passport holders planning trips to European holiday destinations are being reminded of key Entry/Exit System (EES) rules that could affect their travel. The advice comes as the EU's automated digital system, which registers non-EU citizens each time they cross the external borders of participating European countries, has been in place for its first summer.
Passport-linked registration
Travel expert Ricky Durrance, of package holiday specialists Teletext Holidays, highlighted that one of the least understood parts of EES is that registration is linked to the passport, not the person. If a traveller has renewed their passport since their last trip to an EU country, they will be treated as a first-time traveller, even if they completed biometric registration previously.
That means providing fingerprints and a facial scan again at the border, so travellers need to allow more time.
"Many travellers would assume once they're already in the system that’s job done," said Ricky. "But EES is tied to the passport, not the person, so don't be caught out by unexpected enrolment."
Early enrolment and children's scans
Depending on the departure airport, travellers may be able to complete part of the process before flying. The EU's free Travel to Europe app allows travellers using participating border crossings to upload passport details and a facial image up to 72 hours before departure. It's worth checking whether the airport supports this, and package holiday travellers should check with their travel agent whether their departure airport supports early enrolment and allow extra time on arrival.
Families should also remember that every traveller has their own EES record, including children. Each child will need their own passport and facial image check, although under-12s don't need to provide fingerprints.
Destinations outside EES
EES doesn't apply everywhere. Popular holiday destinations including Turkey, Egypt, Morocco and Tunisia sit outside the Schengen Area, so British holidaymakers travelling there won't need to complete EES checks. For those choosing between destinations, it's another factor to consider alongside weather, budget and holiday type.
"Like any new system, there's always a settling-in period," added Ricky. "The important thing is not to let the headlines put you off travelling. Millions of people are still enjoying holidays across Europe."
"If you know what to expect, allow a little extra time where needed and make sure your passport is up to date, the whole process should be straightforward."
