Travel operator TUI has issued an alert to passengers, warning of potential delays at border control due to the implementation of the European Union’s new border management system starting November 1, 2024. The EU Entry/Exit System (EES) aims to enhance security by requiring visitors to provide their photo and fingerprints upon entry. This system will impact all EU states, including popular holiday destinations like Italy, France, Spain, and Greece. The UK Foreign Office has also cautioned travellers about potential queues at borders.
TUI has advised its customers to prepare for longer waiting times by suggesting they bring extra water. The travel operator explained that starting from November 2024, the EES will electronically register all entry and exit movements. Passengers are reassured that the Advanced Passenger Information (API) form they already complete will be used by airlines to transmit their details. Upon arrival, passengers may experience longer waiting times at border control as their biometric data (face image and four fingerprints) will be collected. Children under 12 will be exempt from providing fingerprints.
The Foreign Office suggested that travellers consider taking extra water on their day of travel to ensure a more comfortable airport journey in case of delays. The new EES will apply to non-EU nationals, including British nationals, travelling to or from the Schengen area, consisting of 29 European countries, 25 of which are EU Member States. The system aims to create a digital record for British citizens by registering biometric details upon entry to the Schengen area.
While the process of providing fingerprints and photos is expected to be quick, concerns have been raised about potential chaos and technical challenges during the system’s rollout. Travellers are encouraged to visit the EU EES website and the UK government’s guidance page for further information. TUI’s proactive alert aims to prepare passengers for the upcoming changes in border control procedures to ensure smoother travel experiences.