Get Ready! New Border Checks for All Brits Traveling to Europe Starting Soon – What You Need to Know!

Exciting changes are on the horizon for international travel! The long-anticipated **Entry/Exit System (EES)** is finally set to launch later this year, and the official start date has now been confirmed.

First unveiled back in 2022, the EES is designed to enhance security measures throughout Europe. This system will impose new entry checks for travelers, specifically requiring British citizens to undergo **biometric checks** upon entering and leaving the country.

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These new procedures aim to replace the traditional passport-stamping process with advanced biometric checks. However, don’t get too comfortable just yet: implementation has faced several delays since its initial announcement two years ago.

Recently, EU Home Affairs Commissioner Ylva Johansson clarified that November 10 is the targeted launch date for this transformative system. During her visit to the eu-LISA headquarters, she expressed pride in revealing this significant milestone:

“Different steps are legally required before the Commission could take the formal decision, but I am proud to reveal today that the **10th of November is the target day**,” she stated. “The moment is finally there!”

She expressed optimism amidst prior skepticism, signaling a renewed commitment to follow through on the plan. However, the system has faced numerous setbacks, primarily stemming from IT complications and delays related to the Paris Olympics.

**Why New Entry/Exit System May Cause Delays at Borders**

The introduction of the EES raises concerns about potential congestion at borders due to the added verification processes. More than just a simple passport scan, the system mandates passengers to provide their fingerprints and undergo facial recognition.

Merely envisioning the chaos at the UK-France borders, which millions traverse annually, could lead to wait times extending up to a whopping **14 hours**. Tim Reardon, head of EU exit for the Dover Harbour Board, highlighted the impracticality of conducting biometric checks without halting vehicle traffic, raising the stakes for travelers.

Neil Baker, a Kent County Council representative, warned that the EES could result in an extended period of border disruption, stating the magnitude of the situation could not be understated.

**Understanding the Biometric Checks under the EES**

Lisa Minot, Central Recorder’s Head of Travel, shed light on precisely **what the EES means for travelers**:

“The implementation of the EES will lead to more hassle for passengers departing from the UK,” she noted. “The new system aims to boost security across European borders, which will now require passengers to have biometric data recorded.”

Every traveler will need to scan their passport and provide a facial biometric, along with fingerprints from four fingers on their right hand. Notably, children under 12 will also participate in biometric recording, although they won’t need fingerprints. Subsequently, they will answer four questions regarding their purpose for travel.

Importantly, both fingerprints and facial scans will be essential the first time a traveler engages with the system. For future travels, just one of the two will suffice. However, every three years you will have to repeat the process.

While many airports seem prepared to accommodate this new system, it undeniably adds considerable time to customs checks. Though the need for passport stamps will be eliminated, border officers or e-gates will still review every detail.

At busy ports like Dover, space limitations present unique challenges, especially for passengers traveling in groups in vehicles or coaches. Both Eurostar and Le Shuttle have made hefty investments in new facilities to improve passenger processing, but during the initial weeks, expect delays as everyone adjusts to the new protocols.

In anticipation of lengthy wait times, travelers are encouraged to pack “extra supplies,” including food, water, and other essentials, to endure what may be prolonged queues.

Primarily concerning for European authorities, Slovenia anticipated that it could take **four times longer** to process passengers, while Austrian officials predicted at least **double** the current processing time.

**Get Ready for ETIAS Launch Next Year**

In addition to the EES, the new **European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS)** will roll out in 2025, further regulating entry. This system requires all British travelers to pay €7 for a visa waiver that remains valid for three years. However, an official start date is still pending.

It’s imperative for hundreds of thousands of travelers that preparations are made to ensure smooth passage into Europe, factoring in the need to apply for ETIAS online, as many may face complications in securing authorization.

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As the **Entry/Exit System** and ETIAS approach, travelers must stay informed to navigate the transitions smoothly and prepare for what lies ahead. The travel landscape is changing, and being prepared will ensure a more seamless journey!