UK travellers face new EU entry-exit rules and longer waits at airports
As the European Union prepares to roll out its new entry-exit system (EES) for Schengen borders, travel experts warn that British travellers should expect longer processing times at passport controls. The system, which will require fingerprints and facial biometrics from most third-country nationals, is set to begin its phased rollout this Sunday, with airports across southern Europe potentially experiencing significant delays during peak travel periods.
What the EES means for travellers
The EES centralises biometric data collection for arrivals and departures, replacing some existing stamp-based processes. Although each member state controls the pace of implementation, the overarching goal is to streamline border checks and improve security across the Schengen area. In practice, this means travellers from the UK—not exempt from biometric requirements—will need to provide fingerprints and facial biometrics when entering Schengen borders, which will then be stored in a central database within six months for both entry and exit records.
Timing and bottlenecks
Industry perspectives, including Julia Lo Bue-Said, chief executive of the Advantage Travel Partnership, caution that southern European airports could become bottlenecks as large crowds converge for peak travel periods. Speaking on the BBC Today programme, she advised travellers to allow between three and four hours from touchdown to clearance at the border, especially if arriving at crowded hubs.
Operational roll-out varies by country
Not all destinations will implement the system at the same pace. Some EU countries, such as the Czech Republic, Estonia and Luxembourg, have indicated they will process all arrivals and departures from day one. In contrast, Spain plans a staggered start, with Madrid handling a single arriving flight at first. This staggered approach means travellers should monitor their itineraries and check specific airport procedures ahead of travel.
Practical tips for travellers
- Plan extra time for border checks: Aim for a buffer of up to four hours at airports with known bottlenecks.
- Check airport-specific guidance: Some hubs are rolling out biometrics on a flight-by-flight basis in the early days.
- Keep digital documents ready: Ensure biometric data can be accessed quickly, and have travel documents organized to facilitate processing.
- Consider travel timing: If you’re attending a concert, meeting, wedding or cruise, build in additional time to avoid missing commitments due to delays.
What this means for shorter trips and weekend getaways
For weekend trips or short breaks, this change could reduce the spontaneity of travel if larger airports encounter delays. However, proponents argue that the EES will eventually speed up border crossing once initial backlogs are resolved and biometrics are widely integrated. The key for travellers is awareness and planning, not panic. If you’re heading to popular destinations like Spain or other Schengen countries, confirm your airport’s processing expectations and allocate extra time accordingly.
Real-time impact: current pictures from major hubs
Reports from Palma de Mallorca highlight the scale of the transition: at peak times, up to 80 biometric kiosks may operate in a single terminal, and incoming UK flights could bring large groups of travellers needing biometrics processing at once. Such data underscores the need for patient planning and adequate buffers for processing, especially during seasonal travel peaks.
Bottom line for travellers
The EES marks a significant shift in how the EU manages border control for non-EU travellers. While the rollout aims to strengthen security and streamline checks over time, the early days may bring longer waits. By acknowledging the potential four-hour window and checking airport guidance in advance, British travellers can reduce stress and keep plans on track.
