Heads up, UK travellers! Heading to Europe just got a bit more technical. As of today, a fresh digital entry and exit system (EES) is being rolled out across EU airports. If you’re jetting off to popular spots like Spain or Greece, you might need to register your biometric info, including your snazzy face pic and fingerprints.
This new system aims to make future holidays hassle-free by ditching the need for passport stamps. Sounds pretty smooth, right? But wait, here’s the catch. Right now, as it kicks off, some travellers might face airport delays up to four hours. So, definitely plan for some extra time to avoid missing any concerts, meetings, or that sun-soaked cruise!
Julia Lo Bue-Said from Advantage Travel Partnership suggests building in a buffer of three to four hours to breeze through potential bottlenecks.
The good news is not everyone has to jump through these hoops. If you’re a non-EU national with a residence card or certain ties (like being related to an EU national), you might skip the line. Heads of state, diplomats on short stays, and certain nationals from countries like Andorra, Monaco, San Marino also get a pass.
Stay savvy and check the exemptions before you travel so that your European adventure doesn’t hit a snag. Bon voyage! 🚀✈️