Get ready for a new era of border control in Europe! Starting November 2024, all non-EU travelers, including UK citizens, will need to undergo biometric checks at EU borders as part of the European Union’s Entry-Exit System (EES). This means facial recognition and fingerprint scans will be required for everyone entering the EU, adding a new layer of security and potentially impacting your travel plans, particularly during peak holiday seasons.
The EES is designed to electronically register biometric data and personal details of non-EU travelers, including their name, travel documents, and entry/exit information. While initially planned for 2022, the system was delayed due to logistical challenges at smaller airports, but it’s now officially set to go live in November 2024. The EES applies to all EU member states, excluding Ireland and Cyprus, as well as Schengen Area countries not part of the EU, such as Norway, Iceland, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein.
For travelers, the EES means that biometric registration will be required the first time you enter an EU country. Your digital records will be stored for three years, meaning that on subsequent trips within that timeframe, only a facial recognition scan or fingerprint will be needed to verify your identity. This means quicker processing for repeat visitors, but initial delays are expected as the system rolls out.
Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know about the new biometric checks:
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Biometric Checks at Border Control:
Non-EU travelers, including UK citizens, will need to undergo biometric checks at border control upon entering the EU. This involves facial recognition and fingerprint scans, which will be used to create a digital record of your entry and exit.*
Children Under 12:
While children under 12 years old will be exempt from providing fingerprints, they will still need to have their facial image scanned.*
Data Protection:
The data collected will be erased after three years to comply with data protection regulations under the EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).Preparing for the EES
With these changes just weeks away, it’s essential for UK tourists to prepare for their upcoming holiday plans. The introduction of biometric checks may lead to longer wait times at airports, especially during peak holiday periods like winter breaks or Christmas getaways. British nationals traveling to popular holiday destinations in southern Europe, including Spain, Greece, and Portugal, should be especially mindful of the new requirements and potential delays.
What to Do:
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Stay Informed:
Regularly check travel advisories and official EES information to stay updated on the latest requirements.*
Plan Extra Time:
Allow additional time for airport procedures, especially at smaller airports which may face capacity challenges in processing biometric data.*
Have Documents Ready:
Ensure you have all necessary travel documents, including your passport and visa (if required), ready for inspection.While the initial implementation of the EES may cause some disruptions, the long-term benefits are clear. This system aims to improve border security, streamline travel for repeat visitors, and make border control more efficient for both travelers and authorities. By embracing biometric technology, the EU seeks to create a more secure and seamless travel experience for everyone.
