Travelers heading to the Schengen Area are facing warnings of significant delays this summer due to the European Union’s Entry/Exit System (EES). This digital initiative, which replaces manual passport stamping, tracks non-EU citizens—including those from the UK—as they cross borders within the 29-country zone. To comply, visitors must provide fingerprints and a photograph at automated kiosks, a process that can take extra time.
Reports indicate that airports have experienced varying degrees of efficiency. While some facilities manage the traffic well, others have seen wait times stretching for hours. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has cautioned that delays could reach up to six hours in some locations. Issues with technology and insufficient staffing have exacerbated these bottlenecks. Consequently, some passengers have missed their flights, prompting airline officials to advise travelers to arrive at least three hours before their scheduled departure.
To mitigate these issues, the European Commission is allowing member states to suspend biometric checks in exceptional circumstances until September. For instance, Greece has waived these requirements for British tourists during the peak season, and Portugal is boosting its border staff numbers. Meanwhile, authorities are exploring long-term solutions, such as a mobile application to streamline registration. Looking ahead, the EU also plans to implement the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) by late 2026, which will require non-EU travelers to secure digital pre-authorization for a fee.
