Yesterday, we saw the official introduction of the long-delayed Entry-Exit System (EES) for British travellers entering the European Union. This new system will directly affect how Britons travel to Europe.
The EES will now automatically record travellers’ biometric data and movements - replacing the old passport stamp system.
British travellers should expect digital fingerprints and facial scans to be taken on their next European trip.
Here's what has changed for British travellers:
- The next time a Brit enters the EU, you’ll need to register your fingerprints and have a photo taken.
- That data stays in the system for three years. It’ll automatically log when you enter and leave, enforcing the 90-days-in-180 rule.
- It’s meant to make the border more secure - but it also means longer processing times, especially at Dover, Folkestone, and St Pancras.
Officials say each car could now take five to six minutes to process, instead of under a minute today. That’s because everyone has to go through biometric checks — even families with kids.
From next year, British travellers will also need to apply for an ETIAS travel authorisation - basically a visa waiver - costing €20, or around £17.50 .
In sum, there are now more barriers, more checks, more red tape, the continued hangover from Brexit has reached in to yet another part of our lives.
We released a short explainer video to inform the public about what the changes will mean for them when they travel.