Britons planning trips to popular European destinations like France, Spain, Portugal, and Greece will encounter new entry procedures due to the introduction of Europe’s Entry/Exit System (EES). Airports in the EU are preparing for potential disruptions as non-EU travelers, including Brits, will now be required to provide biometric data such as facial scans and fingerprints upon entry.
In addition to biometric data, personal details from passports will be gathered at EU borders, with entry and exit dates recorded to identify overstays efficiently. The EES aims to eventually replace traditional passport stamps.
Adapting to the new technology has proved challenging at some airports, leading to longer queues for British travelers upon arrival and departure from the EU. While EU passport holders have dedicated lanes, Britons must join other non-EU nationals in using the new system.
To expedite the process for Brits and other non-EU citizens, an official app could be beneficial, although many travelers are unaware of its availability. The Travel to Europe app can be downloaded from Apple’s App Store or Google Play, offering to streamline border checks. Currently operational at selected border points like Sweden and Portugal, the app is expected to expand to more locations soon.
Families traveling together can input co-travelers’ information into the app, consolidating details in one place. By providing journey specifics, scanning passports via the app, taking a selfie, and answering queries, passengers can complete pre-registration up to 72 hours before their flight.
The app generates a QR code for each passenger for scanning at self-service kiosks or by immigration officials. Following signs or guidance from airport staff to the pre-registration queue is advised. While entry is not guaranteed, this process can significantly speed up the border checks for many passengers.
Travelers have been cautioned to anticipate disruptions in the upcoming months at popular tourist spots such as Tenerife. Reports of lengthy queues and confusion stemming from the new system have emerged. Although the EES rollout avoided the busy Easter period, challenges may intensify with the approaching May half-term holiday, potentially straining the system further.
