Deadline for EU biometric border system rollout sparks travel disruption concerns

The EU’s new Entry/Exit System (EES), requiring biometric checks for non-EU travellers, became fully operational from Friday, although not every country was able to meet the deadline.

The EES is a digital border system designed to record when travellers enter and leave 29 European countries. It replaces passport stamping with fingerprint and facial recognition registration, aimed at strengthening security while streamlining journeys.

The system has been gradually introduced since October, but technical issues and operational delays mean not all border points will be fully active. Airports in Milan and Lisbon are among those not yet switching on the system, while long queues have been reported throughout the rollout at some locations, including Geneva.

Travel experts warn delays could worsen during the peak holiday period, particularly as each registration takes several minutes. The European Commission has said checks may be suspended at busy times to ease congestion.

Passengers will register biometrics either on arrival at EU airports or before departure from the UK at the Port of Dover, Eurotunnel, or London St Pancras terminals.