EU fingerprint and photo travel rules come into force
EU fingerprint and photo travel rules come into force
The European Union’s newly introduced digital border system, which necessitates fingerprint scans and photographic identification along with passport checks, is scheduled to operate fully from Friday. This marks the completion of the Entry/Exit System (EES) rollout across all 29 Schengen participating nations. The system was phased in starting October, with the objective of improving security and simplifying travel, though some operational challenges have delayed full implementation at certain points.
System Rollout and Challenges
Despite its gradual introduction since October, the EES has faced disruptions, leading to extended waits at European airports. Officials have warned that such delays may intensify during peak travel seasons. The EES is designed to monitor the entry and exit of non-EU citizens, including UK nationals, within the Schengen Area—a group of 29 countries where border controls are largely eliminated. Popular UK tourist destinations like France, Spain, and Greece are among those affected.
“The European Commission has indicated that suspending EES checks to help ease queues will be allowed at busy times until September.”
Initially, the system’s rollout was expected to take six months, but not all airports are fully operational by the deadline. For instance, Milan and Lisbon airports remain in the process of transitioning. Travelers arriving in Geneva, a major ski resort, encountered significant delays earlier this year due to the system’s early implementation.
Implementation Details
When travelers first encounter the EES, it will vary depending on their destination and travel method. For air passengers, the process begins upon landing at European airports, where biometric data is captured alongside passport scans. However, those crossing the English Channel by ferry or train will undergo checks as they depart the UK, using kiosks at Dover and Eurostar terminals.
Children under 12 are exempt from fingerprint collection. Staff will assist passengers during the registration process, which includes answering four questions about their trip, such as confirming accommodation and financial status. At Eurotunnel, border officers will handle these questions discretionarily.
The EES registration is valid for three years, with verification required on each visit. Dover, a key entry point, has made infrastructure adjustments, reclaiming land from the sea to establish a new processing area. This site, a mile from the ferry terminal, will be used for EES checks, with coaches sealed after completion to proceed directly to their vessels.
Eurostar has installed 49 kiosks across three locations at its London St Pancras terminal, though manual checks by border officers are still in use. The port’s manager noted that schoolchildren can complete part of their registration in advance, reducing the time needed at the border.
