EES border controls are causing chaos for British holidaymakers as Andy Burnham faces calls to lobby EU leaders for a suspension. With 2.2 million travelers expected this weekend, the new Entry/Exit System threatens to ruin holidays.
What Is the EES and Why Is It Causing Delays?
The Entry/Exit System (EES) requires non-EU citizens to register, be photographed, and fingerprinted upon arrival. Though technically in force since April, border police have relaxed checks during extreme delays, yet many passengers still miss flights or queue for hours.
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Liberal Democrats Demand Action
Calum Miller, Liberal Democrat foreign affairs spokesperson, urged Prime Minister Burnham to call on EU states to drop this "bungled, malfunctioning border system" until at least September. He warned that Brexit has "put millions of Britons at risk."
Key Travel Data for This Weekend
| Destination | Demand Level | EES Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Spain | Highest | Full checks |
| Greece | Strong | Exempted biometrics for UK |
| Portugal | Strong | Full checks |
| Italy | Strong | Full checks |
| Turkey | Strong | Full checks |
Advice for Travellers
Abta chief executive Mark Tanzer advises passengers to allow extra time at passport control. Greece has already indicated it will not impose additional biometric checks on UK nationals, but other countries may still enforce the system.
What Can You Do?
- Arrive at the airport at least 3 hours early for international flights.
- Check if your destination has EES exemptions or relaxed rules.
- Keep all travel documents easily accessible.
- Monitor updates from Abta and local embassy pages.
- Contact your airline or travel agent for real-time advice.
FAQ
FAQ
What is the EES border system?
The Entry/Exit System (EES) is an EU automated system that registers non-EU travelers, including UK citizens, by collecting their biometric data (photographs and fingerprints) upon entry and exit to the Schengen Area.
Why is Andy Burnham involved?
As the UK’s prime minister, Andy Burnham has been urged by the Liberal Democrats to directly lobby EU leaders to suspend EES until at least September to prevent holiday chaos.
Are any countries exempt from EES checks for Brits?
Yes, Greece has announced it will not impose additional biometric checks on UK nationals. Other EU countries may follow, but most still enforce the full system.
How can I avoid delays due to EES?
Arrive early, check your destination's policies, keep documents ready, and stay updated via official travel advisories. Booking flights with flexible rebooking options can also help.
With the peak travel weekend underway, the EES border controls remain a major concern. Whether through diplomatic lobbying or personal preparation, staying informed is the best way to ensure a smooth journey.
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