EU fingerprint and photo travel rules come into force
EU’s Digital Border System for Travelers Launches Friday
The European Union has implemented a new digital border framework, mandating fingerprint and photo scans in addition to passport verification, beginning its full operation on Friday. This system, known as the Entry/Exit System (EES), is now active at all Schengen border checkpoints across the 29 member nations. The rollout started in October, aiming to streamline travel and enhance security, though some delays have occurred due to technical challenges.
Rollout Timeline and Challenges
The EES was introduced incrementally from October, with the goal of integrating it over six months. However, certain locations have not yet completed the transition, leading to extended wait times at key European airports. Travel experts have noted that IT glitches have occasionally disrupted the process, creating bottlenecks during peak travel seasons.
System Overview and Scope
The EES tracks the entry and exit of non-EU nationals, including UK citizens, within the Schengen Area—a network of 29 European countries where border checks are waived. This area includes popular UK tourist destinations like France, Spain, Portugal, Italy, and Greece. The system replaces traditional passport stamping with biometric data collection.
Registration Process Details
Upon arrival, travelers will be required to provide fingerprints and a photograph, alongside a passport scan. The process will depend on the entry point: at European airports, it occurs upon landing, while those crossing via the English Channel—such as ferry passengers from Dover to France—will complete it before departure. Special kiosks will handle the scanning, but manual checks remain in place for some routes.
“Suspension of EES checks during high-traffic periods will be permitted until September,” stated the European Commission, acknowledging the need for flexibility amid operational hurdles.
Implementation at Key Entry Points
At Dover, ferry passengers in coaches have been using the EES since October, but those in private vehicles have not yet begun. The port has expanded its facilities, including a new processing area a mile from the terminal, to accommodate the changes. Coaches will be sealed after registration to streamline departure.
Eurotunnel, which operates vehicle shuttles through the Channel Tunnel, is also phasing in the EES. The system will not activate on 10 April at its Dover and London St Pancras terminals. Eurostar has installed 49 kiosks for registration, but manual checks are still conducted by staff. Travelers will answer four questions on the screen, such as confirming accommodation and financial status, though border officers may handle these queries discretionarily at certain locations.
Special Considerations for Children and Travelers
Children under 12 are exempt from fingerprint collection. Staff will assist with registration, ensuring smooth processing. The EES data remains valid for three years, with verification occurring on each subsequent trip within that timeframe.