UK Travelers Get Temporary Reprieve as EES Delayed to November

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Long summer queues at UK ports won’t be a problem—at least, not yet.

The European Union’s (EU) new Entry/Exit System (EES), designed to tighten border security, won’t take effect at Channel ports until November 2025, giving British travelers more time before biometric checks become mandatory.

Border delays pushed back again

British travelers heading to the EU were bracing for potential disruptions this year, but the latest delay means they can continue using the current passport-stamping system for now.

The EES, initially scheduled for November 2024, was postponed after several EU countries, including France and Germany, admitted that they weren’t ready.

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What EES means for travelers

Once launched, the EES will replace manual passport stamping with a biometric system that records fingerprints and facial images of all non-EU visitors entering the Schengen Area​.

British travelers arriving by ferry or train from Dover and Folkestone will need to register their biometrics before crossing into France.

For those who frequently visit Europe, the new system will store biometric data for three years. Each new visit extends that period, but a new passport will require re-registration​.

Concerns over delays at ports

Despite the delay, concerns remain about congestion at ports, particularly in Dover. Processing passengers individually rather than stamping passports in bulk is expected to slow down border crossings.

The European Scrutiny Committee previously warned that UK holidaymakers could face wait times of up to 14 hours​.

Authorities are working on infrastructure solutions.

The Port of Dover has expanded space at its Western Docks to accommodate travelers during peak times. Eurotunnel, which invested £70 million in new facilities at Folkestone, appears better prepared to handle the changes​.

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UK backs phased implementation

The UK has welcomed the EU’s decision to introduce EES gradually over six months. Bannister emphasized that this approach will help ensure a smoother transition. 

Officials expect the EU to make a final decision in April or May on whether to proceed with the planned November launch​.

Future travel to the EU

The EES is only one part of upcoming travel rule changes. The EU is also planning to introduce the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS), an electronic permit similar to the U.S. ESTA.

Once EES is operational, the ETIAS will become mandatory, requiring UK travelers to apply online before visiting the Schengen Area​.

For now, British holidaymakers can enjoy another summer of hassle-free travel to Europe. However, with biometric checks coming soon, preparing for longer wait times at ports remains essential.

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