EU fingerprint and photo travel rules come into force

EU Fingerprint and Photo Travel Rules Begin Operation

The EU’s updated digital border framework, which integrates biometric data such as fingerprints and photographs with passport scans, will be fully implemented from Friday. This marks the completion of the Entry/Exit System (EES) rollout, which was intended to activate at all Schengen border checkpoints across 29 member states by this date. However, some locations, including Milan and Lisbon, will not yet be using the system fully.

The gradual integration of EES started in October, aiming to improve security and simplify cross-border movement. Despite its goal of easing travel, technical issues have caused delays, particularly at key European airports. During peak holiday seasons, wait times have reportedly worsened, with long lines reported at several points.

Travel experts have informed the BBC that the system has faced intermittent IT problems, leading to the formation of extended queues for some travelers.

The EES is designed to track the entry and exit of non-EU citizens, including UK nationals, within the Schengen Area. This region comprises 29 European countries, primarily EU members, where passport controls are suspended. Popular UK tourist destinations like France, Spain, Portugal, Italy, and Greece are among those included.

Upon arrival, travelers will need to register their biometric data—fingerprints and a photo—while their passports are scanned. This replaces the traditional stamping process. The first-time registration depends on the point of entry. For air travelers, it occurs upon landing at European airports, whereas those departing the UK by ferry or train will complete it at departure points.

At Dover, ferry passengers in coaches began using the system in October, but those in cars remain on hold with no confirmed start date. Eurotunnel, which transports vehicles through the Channel Tunnel, is also introducing EES in stages. At its terminals, the automated four-question verification process will not be in place until 10 April.

Dover has undergone major infrastructure changes, including reclaiming land from the sea to create a new processing area. This site, a mile from the ferry terminal, will handle EES checks. Coaches will be sealed after completing the process, then proceed to board ferries. Officials note that school groups may pre-register details to streamline their arrival at the border.

While the EES rollout aims for seamless travel, challenges persist. For instance, at Eurotunnel, border officers will manually ask questions during busy periods, rather than relying on automated kiosks. The registration process will remain valid for three years, with data cross-checked on each trip within that timeframe.

Implementation Challenges

Initial testing at airports like Geneva highlighted delays, with the system causing significant hold-ups. The European Commission has stated that temporary suspensions of EES checks may be permitted during high-demand periods until September to alleviate congestion.

As of Friday, not all European airports will be fully operational with the new system. Some locations, including Dover and Eurostar’s London St Pancras terminal, will see partial implementation. Eurostar has installed 49 EES kiosks at its terminals, but manual checks are still in use for now.