EU fingerprint and photo travel rules come into force
EU Fingerprint and Photo Travel Rules Come Into Force
The Schengen Area’s new digital border system, mandating fingerprints and photos in addition to passport scans, will be fully active from Friday. This marks the final stage for the Entry/Exit System (EES), which is now operational at all 29 participating countries’ border checkpoints. The rollout began in October with the goal of improving security and simplifying travel, though some regions are still adjusting to the changes.
System Purpose and Scope
The EES is designed to monitor the entry and exit of non-EU citizens, including UK nationals, within the Schengen Area. This region spans 29 European nations, most of which are EU members, allowing free movement across borders. Popular UK tourist destinations like France, Spain, Portugal, Italy, and Greece are included in the system’s coverage. The initiative aims to eventually replace the traditional method of stamping passports with automated biometric checks.
Implementation Hiccups and Delays
Despite the planned six-month transition, some border points have faced challenges. Reports indicate long wait times at European airports, with concerns that delays could intensify during peak travel seasons. Travel experts have noted that technical issues have occasionally disrupted the process, causing bottlenecks for passengers. The European Commission has allowed temporary suspension of EES checks at busy times until September to alleviate congestion.
“The system at some points has been blighted by IT issues, and long queues can form where travellers are unable to use the system with ease,” said a travel expert.
Not all airports will activate the system on Friday. Milan and Lisbon, for instance, are still in the process of full implementation. The first use of EES depends on the traveler’s destination and timing. At European airports, the process occurs upon arrival, while ferry passengers departing from Dover will complete checks as they leave the UK. Special kiosks at ports and train stations will handle biometric data collection, including fingerprint scans and photo captures.
Unique Requirements and Exceptions
Children under 12 are exempt from fingerprint registration. Staff will assist those needing help. The system will also prompt travelers with four questions about their trip, such as accommodation details and financial verification. However, at Eurotunnel, these inquiries are made manually by border officers. The EES registration remains valid for three years, with data cross-checked on each visit.
At Dover, ferry passengers in coaches began using the EES in October. Tourist vehicles were initially scheduled for 1 November but have yet to start. To accommodate this, the port has expanded its facilities, reclaiming land to create a new processing area a mile from the terminal. Coaches will be sealed after checks and transported to the ferry terminal. Eurostar has installed 49 EES kiosks at its London St Pancras terminal, though manual checks are currently in place.
