EU Border Checks for UK Travellers Face Possible Delay
The European Commission has admitted the new border checks for travellers entering the EU from the UK, set to start in November, might be pushed back again.
What’s the Fuss About?
The EU’s Entry/Exit System (EES) will require travellers from non-EU countries—including the UK—to register their details and provide biometric data like facial scans and fingerprints. Originally due on November 10, the rollout faces tech issues that could trigger a “soft launch.”
A European Commission spokesperson said: “The current deadline still stands. However, the implementation of a system like EES is a complex operation and delays cannot be completely excluded.”
Chaos Brewing at Dover
The Port of Dover, the UK’s busiest EU gateway, still hasn’t received the handheld tablets meant to capture biometric data from passengers in vehicles. No full testing has happened yet.
- Dover has been upgrading infrastructure, including building custom facilities for checks.
- They plan to use 24 kiosks for coach passengers.
- Car passengers will be checked by agents with tablets once available.
UK Government Steps In
A UK Government spokesperson confirmed: “We are working with the European Commission, France, and local authorities to ensure we are prepared.”
The EES aims to speed up and secure border controls across the EU. But with millions of travellers needing biometric checks, the risk of delays is high as the holiday rush looms.
Expect more updates soon as preparations continue at Dover and other key entry points.
