The European Commission has acknowledged that the planned introduction of new border checks for travellers entering the European Union from the UK, which was scheduled to start in November, may face further delays.
The European Union’s Entry/Exit System (EES) will require travellers from non-EU countries, including the UK, to register their details at the EU border and provide biometric data, such as facial scans and fingerprints. This new system was initially set to take effect on 10 November, but there is now uncertainty about whether the technology will be ready in time, potentially leading to a “soft launch.
A European Commission spokesperson stated that the current deadline still stands: “However, the implementation of a system like EES is a complex operation and delays cannot be completely excluded.
The EES aims to modernise the management of the EU’s external borders by using handheld devices to collect biometric data from passengers in cars. However, the Port of Dover has yet to receive any of these tablets, resulting in no proper testing of the system at the location so far.
The Port of Dover has been undertaking significant infrastructure upgrades to accommodate the new requirements, including constructing bespoke facilities to carry out the checks. It plans to use 24 kiosks to process coach passengers, while passengers in cars will be registered using agents equipped with tablets.
A UK Government spokesperson said: “We are working with the European Commission, France, and the local authorities to ensure we are prepared.
The EES was designed to make the EU’s border control processes more efficient and secure. However, the challenges of implementing the necessary technology on time could lead to delays, especially as the busy travel season approaches. With the system requiring biometric checks for millions of travellers, the effectiveness of the upcoming changes will depend on a successful rollout and collaboration among all involved parties.
Further updates are expected as preparations for the EES continue at Dover and other entry points into the EU.
