Skip to main content
EU Biometric Border Checks
13th
Apr

Updated: April 2026

If you’re travelling from the UK to Europe, there are important changes to border control that could affect your journey.

The EU’s Entry/Exit System (EES), first outlined in our previous update in late 2025, is now beginning to roll out across the Schengen Area. It replaces traditional passport stamping with a digital system designed to improve security and streamline travel.

While the long-term aim is a smoother border experience, early implementation has shown that travellers should be prepared for some disruption.

What is the EU Entry/Exit System?

The Entry/Exit System (EES) is a new automated IT system for registering travellers from non-EU countries, including the UK, each time they cross an external EU border.

Instead of manually stamping passports, the system will record:

  • Your name and passport details
  • Biometric data, including fingerprints and a facial image
  • The date and place of entry and exit

This data is stored securely and helps authorities monitor how long travellers stay within the Schengen Area.

Why is the EU introducing EES?

The EES has been developed to:

  • Improve border security across the EU
  • Reduce reliance on manual passport stamping
  • Track overstays more accurately
  • Support a more automated and efficient border process over time

For frequent travellers, particularly those travelling for business, the intention is that this will eventually create a more consistent and predictable experience.

What’s changed since our last update?

While EES was originally expected to deliver a seamless transition, early rollout across parts of Europe has highlighted some challenges.

Recent reporting has shown that some airports, ports and rail terminals have experienced longer queues as travellers go through the new biometric checks for the first time. In certain locations, this has led to noticeable delays, particularly during busy periods.

Airlines, airport operators and industry bodies have also cautioned that disruption is likely during this initial phase, as systems bed in and staff and passengers adapt to the new process.

Although not all border points are affected, the possibility of delays is something travellers should plan for in the short term.

What this means for UK travellers

If you are travelling from the UK to the EU, you will need to go through this new digital process at the border.

This may include:

  • Presenting your passport for scanning
  • Providing biometric data such as fingerprints or a facial scan
  • Having your entry and exit recorded electronically instead of stamped

While the process itself is relatively quick, the additional steps mean that overall border processing times may be longer than travellers are used to, particularly at peak times.

Where could delays occur?

Delays are most likely at:

  • Busy international airports
  • Major rail terminals (such as Eurostar routes)
  • Popular holiday destinations during peak travel seasons

The level of disruption can vary depending on location, passenger volumes and how established the system is at each border crossing.

How to prepare for your trip

A few simple steps can help minimise disruption and keep your journey running smoothly:

  • Allow extra time when arriving at EU borders, particularly during peak travel periods
  • Be prepared for queues, especially at major transport hubs
  • Keep your passport ready and ensure it meets EU validity requirements
  • Avoid tight onward connections, particularly when arriving in the EU
  • Follow instructions from border staff to help keep queues moving efficiently

For business travellers, building in additional time is particularly important to avoid knock-on impacts to meetings or onward travel plans.

Looking ahead

Once fully implemented, the Entry/Exit System is expected to improve efficiency and reduce manual checks at EU borders.

However, as with any major change, a period of adjustment is inevitable. Travellers should expect some variability in processing times while the system becomes fully established.

We will continue to monitor developments and keep this page updated with the latest guidance.

Helpful Links

House of Fisher – here to help

Whether you’re visiting Reading, Bracknell, Newbury, Camberley, Farnborough, or Basingstoke, our serviced apartments make the perfect base before or after your European trip. Our team keeps an eye on travel developments and will be happy to share the latest guidance for smooth, stress-free travel.

Book Directly and Save!

For the best available rate, always book directly. Get in touch today with our friendly and knowledgeable award-winning reservations team on 01189 514151, email reservations@houseoffisher.com or book online.

Share this...