The British travel industry has issued warnings over potential delays at EU borders as a new biometric entry-exit system is set to come into effect. The Entry/Exit System (EES), which will record the movements of non-EU nationals, including British travellers, is expected to be operational by November 2024. Industry bodies, including ABTA and the UK Travel Retail Forum, have called for pragmatic solutions to avoid disruption during peak holiday periods.
The EES will require travellers to have their fingerprints and photograph taken on their first entry into the Schengen area. This is expected to increase processing times at border crossings, particularly at ports and airports with high volumes of non-EU traffic. The travel sector has raised concerns about the lack of preparedness infrastructure and potential bottlenecks.
A spokesperson for ABTA stated that the implementation of EES "needs to be handled pragmatically" to minimise impacts on British holidaymakers. They urged both UK and EU authorities to invest in digital solutions and physical infrastructure to streamline the process. The UK Travel Retail Forum echoed this, highlighting the economic consequences of delays at key transit points such as Dover and the Channel Tunnel.
The warnings come amid ongoing negotiations between the UK and EU on post-Brexit border arrangements. Trade and travel associations have emphasised the need for a balanced approach that does not undermine the benefits of the EU single market or the UK's independent trading status.
The British government has acknowledged the risks and is working with EU counterparts to ensure a smooth transition. However, industry leaders caution that without concrete action, the summer of 2025 could see significant disruption. The travel sector is pushing for a phased introduction of the system and comprehensive communication campaigns to inform passengers.
The EES is part of a broader EU effort to enhance border security and manage migration flows. Its implementation has been repeatedly delayed due to technical challenges. The latest timeline suggests a rollout before the end of 2024, just ahead of the peak summer travel season.
Travel analysts warn that the cumulative impact of EES, combined with other post-Brexit requirements such as the need for ETIAS authorisation, could deter some British tourists from travelling to the EU. However, demand for European holidays remains strong. The industry is urging a pragmatic approach to maintain smooth travel flows and sustain the economic benefits of cross-Channel tourism.
