The EU border chaos at the Dover crossing is set to peak this weekend as the busiest summer travel period begins, with thousands of drivers facing potential delays due to the malfunctioning entry-exit system (EES). The semi-functional EES, combined with heatwaves and flight fears, has pushed British domestic holidays to their highest levels since Covid halted international travel. Motoring organizations expect Friday to kick off the busiest summer weekend for domestic leisure trips, with the port of Dover bracing for long tailbacks.
Why Is the Dover Border Facing Chaos This Summer?
The port of Dover is bracing for significant disruptions as French border police, situated at Dover, manually register non-EU travelers for EES. The new £40 million automated facility built to speed through passengers is unable to operate due to software problems in France. Even though the French police aux frontières (PAF) cannot carry out biometric registration—photographing and fingerprinting—the additional time needed to create a file for each visitor could still lead to long queues.
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Key Factors Behind the Delays
- Malfunctioning EES system at Dover and Eurotunnel automated kiosks
- Record summer traffic with 7,500 cars expected Friday and 10,000 on Saturday
- Manual processing of non-EU travelers by French border police
- Heatwaves and flight fears boosting domestic holidays
Comparison: Dover vs. Eurotunnel Delays
| Crossing Point | Expected Traffic | Delay Risk | EES Biometric Registration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Port of Dover | 7,500–10,000 cars/day | High (long tailbacks) | Not operational |
| Eurotunnel LeShuttle | High summer volume | Low (no anticipated delays) | Not operational |
While Eurotunnel expects no delays, the port of Dover warns of traffic chaos. The RAC and Inrix predict the worst traffic on Friday in areas of the M25 around Greater London linking to the M20, so drivers should plan alternative routes.
Travel Tips to Avoid Border Chaos
The port has urged holidaymakers to use only main roads when driving to the port and arrive no more than two hours before their booked sailing. Plan your journey using real-time traffic apps and avoid peak hours if possible. Consider using Eurotunnel as an alternative to reduce wait times.
Key Takeaways for Travelers
- Arrive at Dover no more than two hours before your sailing
- Stick to main roads like the M20 to avoid local congestion
- Check EES requirements for non-EU travelers before departure
- Monitor traffic updates from RAC and Inrix for M25 delays
FAQ
What is the EU entry-exit system (EES) causing chaos at Dover?
The EES is a new EU border control system that requires biometric registration (photographs and fingerprints) for non-EU travelers. At Dover, the automated kiosks are not working due to software problems, forcing manual processing and causing delays.
How many cars are expected at Dover this weekend?
About 7,500 cars are expected on Friday and 10,000 on Saturday, making it the busiest summer weekend for the port.
What should drivers do to avoid traffic jams at Dover?
Use main roads like the M20, arrive no more than two hours before sailing, and consider Eurotunnel as an alternative to reduce wait times.
Stay informed and plan ahead to navigate the EU border chaos at Dover this summer. With the right preparation, you can minimize delays and enjoy your holiday.
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