The UK Government has issued an urgent travel warning to British citizens heading to countries in the European Union. Travellers to popular EU destinations such as France, Italy, and Spain are being cautioned about potential delays due to the implementation of a new digital border system known as the Entry/Exit system (EES).
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) highlighted the need for British nationals to be prepared for ‘EES-related delays’ upon arrival at their destination. The EES will require UK passport holders entering the Schengen area, which comprises 26 European countries including 22 EU states, to register their biometric details like fingerprints or a photo upon arrival.
The FCDO emphasised that EES registration will replace the current practice of manual passport stamping for visitors to the EU. While the exact date of EES implementation has not been confirmed, the FCDO is working to minimise potential delays for travellers. Ports such as Eurotunnel and Dover are upgrading their systems to streamline the process.
Travellers were advised to create a digital record upon their first visit to the Schengen area, submitting fingerprints and having their photo taken at dedicated booths. Longer queue times may be experienced upon arrival at Schengen area countries, especially for flights. Some ports and international stations like Dover, Eurotunnel, and St Pancras may see increased wait times during EES registration.
The digital record created through EES registration will be valid for three years, simplifying entry and exit procedures for subsequent visits to the Schengen area. The implementation of EES aims to enhance border security in the EU and neighbouring countries while reducing illegal migration within the Schengen area.
British travellers planning trips to EU countries are advised to stay informed about EES developments and potential impacts on their journeys. For more information and updates, travellers can refer to the FCDO’s official channels.