British Travelers Unprepared for EU Border Control Changes
A recent survey by Co-op Insurance has revealed that a staggering 63% of British travelers are unaware of the upcoming changes to border control procedures within the European Union. The European Union’s Entry/Exit Scheme (EES), set to take effect in October 2024, will require non-EU citizens to register their biometric data and travel document information upon entry and exit. Failure to comply with these new regulations may result in delays or even denial of entry.
EES: Enhanced Border Security
The EES is an automated system designed to enhance border security and streamline travel within the EU. Travelers will register their fingerprints, facial images, name, travel document type, and entry/exit dates. This data will be stored in the system for three years, facilitating faster border crossings and enhancing the detection of illegal activities.
ETIAS: Visa Waiver for EU Entry
Alongside the EES, the European Travel Information and Authorisation Scheme (ETIAS) will require British travelers to obtain a visa waiver for visits to most EU countries. The application fee is expected to be £6, and the visa will be valid for multiple entries over a three-year period. ETIAS is intended to strengthen border security by screening travelers for potential risks.
EEA and Schengen Zone
The EES will apply to all 25 EU member states as well as four non-EU countries: Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein. The Schengen Area, which comprises 26 European countries, has a 90-day visa-free period for non-EU nationals. The EES will monitor compliance with this rule and record overstays.
Delayed Implementation
The implementation of both the EES and ETIAS has faced several delays. The EES was initially scheduled for 2022 but has been postponed multiple times, most recently to October 2024. ETIAS, originally slated for 2023, is now expected to launch in mid-2025.
Impact on British Travelers
For British travelers, these changes mean they will have to undergo additional checks and provide biometric data when crossing EU borders. It is crucial for travelers to be informed of these new requirements and to allow ample time for the necessary procedures when planning their trips to Europe.
