EU fingerprint and photo travel rules come into force

EU Fingerprint and Photo Travel Rules Now in Effect

The European Union’s new digital border initiative, mandating fingerprint scans and passport photos, will fully operate starting this Friday. This marks the completion of the Entry/Exit System (EES), which is expected to function at every Schengen border point across all 29 participating nations. Although the system began its phased rollout in October, some sites have yet to implement it completely due to technical challenges.

The EES is designed to monitor the entry and exit of non-EU citizens, including those from the UK, within the Schengen Area—a group of 29 European countries where border checks are streamlined. Popular UK travel destinations like France, Spain, Portugal, Italy, and Greece are included in this framework. By requiring biometric data, the system aims to replace the traditional method of stamping passports with a more efficient digital approach.

Implementation has faced delays, leading to extended queues at certain European airports. Travel experts have noted that these delays could intensify during peak holiday seasons. While the gradual rollout began on 12 October, with a six-month timeline for full deployment, not all locations will be operational by Friday. For instance, Milan and Lisbon airports are among those yet to activate the system.

“Suspension of EES checks to alleviate queues will be permitted at busy times until September,” stated the European Commission.

For most travelers, the EES process occurs at their destination airport. When arriving by air, passengers will undergo fingerprint and photo registration upon landing. However, those crossing the English Channel by ferry from Dover or via Eurotunnel/Eurostar will complete the process as they depart the UK. Special kiosks at these points will scan passports and collect biometric data, though staff will assist where needed.

Children under 12 are exempt from fingerprint collection. The system also prompts travelers with four questions about their trip, such as confirming accommodation and financial status. At Eurotunnel, these questions are handled manually by border officers. The registration remains valid for three years, with verification required on each subsequent visit.

Dover has undergone significant changes to accommodate the EES. The port has expanded its landmass to create an additional processing area, a mile from the terminal. Coaches will be sealed after registration to streamline ferry departures. Schoolchildren groups will benefit from pre-registration, reducing on-site processing time. Eurostar has installed 49 kiosks at its London St Pancras terminal, though manual checks are still in use.

Despite the system’s goals, technical glitches have caused disruptions. For example, Geneva’s airport saw prolonged delays earlier this year. The EES’s phased introduction, starting on 12 October, has allowed some adjustments. While coaches and tourist groups are now using the system, car travelers have not yet been fully integrated, with no official start date confirmed.