Get ready for a new era of travel! Departing the UK from select ports will soon involve a tech upgrade designed to enhance border security and streamline the passenger experience. These changes, while aiming for efficiency, will introduce new biometric checks and digital processes for travelers.
The Entry/Exit System (EES), the new system being implemented, represents a significant shift in how border control operates. Forget relying solely on passport stamps; the future involves biometric data collection, including fingerprints and facial images, to record entries and exits from the UK. This new layer of security will impact how passengers move through ports and terminals.
Starting October 12th, the Port of Dover, the Channel Tunnel in Folkestone, and Eurostar at St. Pancras International in London will be the first locations to implement these updated procedures. This phased rollout aims to smooth out the transition and minimize disruptions as the system is integrated into existing travel infrastructure.
What does this mean for you? If you're traveling through the Eurotunnel, expect a two-stage implementation. Initially, buses and lorries will adhere to the new EES rules beginning October 12th. Car passengers will follow suit by the end of the year, so it is important to stay updated as you approach your travel date.
To facilitate the new EES system, Eurotunnel has invested approximately £70 million, installing 224 kiosks designed to process up to 700 vehicles per hour during peak times. This investment aims to keep traffic flowing efficiently despite the added step of biometric data collection.
Imagine this: as your vehicle approaches the Eurotunnel kiosk, your registration plate will be automatically displayed on a screen. Passengers will then step out of the car to have their passports scanned and biometric data captured. This process, though potentially adding a few minutes to the journey, is designed to bolster security protocols.
While the initial rollout commences in October, the complete system integration is anticipated by April 2026. This gradual implementation will allow for adjustments and refinements, ensuring a more seamless experience for travelers in the long run.
Eurostar passengers departing from London St. Pancras will also encounter the new EES system. The initial phase will involve a select group of passengers using the new system, though specifics on who will be included are still to be confirmed. New facilities costing around £11 million and including 49 kiosks are being installed to facilitate these checks.
Keep in mind that passengers arriving by air into Schengen area countries will complete EES checks upon arrival at their destination airports. This means the process is shifted to the entry point of the Schengen zone, rather than the departure point from the UK.
Estonia has proudly announced its status as the first EU country to fully implement the EES, showing its commitment to technological advancement and border security. This move sets a precedent for other nations and highlights the growing importance of digitized travel processes.
Despite concerns about potential delays, Eurotunnel boss Yann Leriche anticipates a "minimal impact" on wait times, estimating approximately two extra minutes per person at Folkestone and Calais. This optimistic outlook suggests the investment in technology and infrastructure will mitigate any significant disruptions.
A significant benefit of the EES is the longevity of the fingerprint scans. Once your fingerprints are registered, they will remain valid for three years, eliminating the need for repeated scans during subsequent trips within that timeframe. This feature aims to improve the efficiency and ease of future travel.
Exemptions exist for young travelers. Children under the age of 12 will not be required to provide fingerprint scans, streamlining the process for families traveling with younger children.
The official GOV.UK website offers comprehensive advice and guidance regarding the EES. They advise that on your first visit to the Schengen area after the EES is introduced, you will need to create a digital record at the port or airport of arrival. This includes submitting your fingerprints and having your photo taken at dedicated booths.
According to GOV.UK, you won’t need to provide any information *before* travelling to a Schengen area country. This means you can focus on packing your bags and preparing for your trip, rather than filling out lengthy online forms in advance.
Familiarizing yourself with common questions you may be asked when entering an EU country can also help you prepare for your travels and avoid potential delays at the border.
While the EES is on track for implementation, the rollout of the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), a new EU-visa waiver similar to the ESTA required for US travel, is facing delays. This waiver will eventually require travelers to pay for an exemption before entering EU countries.
The initial cost of the ETIAS was estimated at €7 (£6), but it has since been raised to €20 (£18), despite the system not even launching yet. This price increase has sparked debate among travelers and industry stakeholders.
Once implemented, the ETIAS visa waiver will be valid for approximately three years and will cover travel to all EU countries. This long-term validity provides convenience and flexibility for frequent travelers.
Similar to the fingerprinting exemptions for the EES, certain groups will be exempt from ETIAS fees. Anyone under the age of 18 or over the age of 70 will receive the visa waiver free of charge.
As travel evolves, understanding and preparing for these new regulations is crucial. By staying informed and following the latest guidance, you can navigate these changes with confidence and enjoy a smooth travel experience.