British travelers have been cautioned about potential extended wait times when entering Europe due to the implementation of new post-Brexit checks starting next month. The introduction of the Entry/Exit System (EES) at EU borders will involve the collection of fingerprints, photographs, and passport scans instead of traditional stamping, beginning on October 12 for UK and non-EU nationals on short stays.
A spokesperson from the UK government highlighted the significant shift at the EU border and ongoing collaboration with European partners to mitigate disruptions for British citizens. Despite preparations to ensure necessary infrastructure, individuals planning trips to mainland Europe post-check implementation must allocate extra travel time for acclimatization to the new EU procedures.
EES will be mandatory for entry into Schengen area countries, such as Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland, excluding Ireland and Cyprus. UK citizens will need to register upon their initial visit to a participating country post-EES introduction, with each registration valid for up to three years or until passport expiration.
All travelers, including infants, will undergo photography, while fingerprinting is not required for children under 12. Each border crossing will involve passport scanning and either fingerprinting or photo submission, creating digital records for all individuals. The phased EES implementation by European nations spans six months, leading to varying requirements at airports, ports, and train terminals until April next year.
For travelers departing from the Port of Dover, Eurotunnel in Folkestone, or Eurostar at St Pancras International, the process will occur at the UK border pre-departure. The government has allocated £10.5 million for the acquisition of scanners and equipment essential for the checks.
The EU anticipates that the EES system will enhance monitoring of individuals utilizing the 90-day visa-free travel provision. Exceptions to the new regulations include British citizens with Withdrawal Agreement residence documents and UK-EU dual citizens utilizing EU passports.
While individual EES checks are projected to take 1-2 minutes, potential delays may arise at Schengen area Border Control upon entry. Juxtaposed ports conducting checks in the UK before departure could experience longer wait times during peak periods. Contingency plans are in place at Eurotunnel, Eurostar, and the Port of Dover to minimize disruptions to the greatest extent possible.