EES border controls are causing major disruptions for UK holidaymakers this summer, prompting calls for Andy Burnham to directly lobby EU leaders to suspend the system. With 2.2 million Britons heading abroad between Friday and Monday, the new Entry/Exit System is creating long queues and missed flights at European airports.
What is the EES and Why Is It Causing Problems?
The EES (Entry/Exit System) requires non-EU citizens, including UK nationals, to register upon arrival by providing fingerprints and a photograph. Despite being technically in force since April, border police have sometimes relaxed requirements during extreme delays. However, many passengers still face hours-long waits, with some missing their flights entirely.
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Political Pressure Mounts
Liberal Democrat foreign affairs spokesperson Calum Miller has urged Prime Minister Andy Burnham to call on EU states to drop the “bungled, malfunctioning border system” until at least September. Miller stated, “Holidaymakers and hauliers should not be punished by a bungled, malfunctioning border system that is completely out of their control. Andy Burnham needs to pick up the phone to each and every European leader – and persuade them, collectively, to suspend the EES until at least September.”
Impact on Peak Travel Weekend
Spain is the top destination for this weekend’s exodus, with strong demand for Greece, Portugal, Italy, and Turkey. The travel association Abta advises passengers to allow extra time for passport control. Mark Tanzer, Abta’s chief executive, warned, “For many heading overseas, this will be the first experience of EES, and for some, though not all, it may take longer than usual to get through passport control.”
Comparison of EU Border Systems: Old vs. New
| System | Processing Time | Biometrics Required | Impact on UK Tourists |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pre-Brexit (no EES) | 1-2 minutes per passenger | No | Minimal delays |
| Post-Brexit (EES in force) | 5-15 minutes per passenger | Yes (fingerprint & photo) | Frequent long queues, missed flights |
Key Takeaways for Travelers
- Allow extra time at passport control – at least 3 hours before departure.
- Check if your destination (e.g., Greece) has indicated relaxation of EES checks for UK nationals.
- Stay updated on official advice from the UK Foreign Office and Abta.
- Contact your airline or tour operator if you face severe delays.
FAQ
What does EES stand for?
EES stands for the Entry/Exit System, an automated EU border control system that registers non-EU travellers with biometric data.
Is EES currently enforced at every EU border?
Technically yes, but some countries like Greece have announced they will not impose the additional biometric checks on UK nationals during peak periods. Overall enforcement varies.
What should I do if I miss my flight because of EES delays?
Contact your airline immediately. Some carriers may rebook you without charge if the delay is due to border control. Also, keep documentation of the delay.
Why is Andy Burnham involved in this issue?
As Prime Minister, Burnham is being urged by Liberal Democrats and travel groups to intervene directly with EU leaders to suspend the EES, given the severe disruption to British holidaymakers.
The situation remains fluid, with the possibility of a suspension before September. For now, travelers should prepare for potential delays and stay informed through official channels.
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