The EU's Entry/Exit System (EES) is now operational, and while most travellers are familiar with its biometric checks, a travel expert warns that lesser-known rules are catching people out. Passport holders could face unexpected enrolment procedures if they have renewed their passports since their last visit to an EU country.
EES registration tied to passport, not person
Travel expert Ricky Durrance, of package holiday specialists Teletext Holidays, says that while everyone has heard about the biometric checks, it is the minor regulations that are tripping people up. One of the least well-known aspects of EES is that registration is tied to your passport, not to you personally. So, if you have renewed your passport since your last visit to an EU country, you will be treated as a first-time traveller, even if you have previously completed biometric registration.
That means providing fingerprints and a facial scan once again at the border, so travellers need to allow extra 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."
Speeding up the process
Depending on where you are departing from, you may be able to complete part of the process before you set off. 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, helping make the process smoother. It is worth checking whether your airport supports it before you travel. If you have booked a package holiday, border delays can have a knock-on effect on transfers, so check with your travel agent whether your departure airport supports early enrolment and allow extra time on arrival.
Children and non-Schengen destinations
Families should also bear in mind that every traveller has their own EES record, children included. Each child will require their own passport and facial image check, although under-12s are exempt from providing fingerprints, which helps to speed things up slightly. The good news is that EES is not applicable across the board. Popular holiday hotspots including Turkey, Egypt, Morocco and Tunisia fall outside the Schengen Area, meaning British tourists heading there will not need to complete EES checks. Check whether your chosen destination requires EES before you travel.
"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."
