Greece Exempts UK Travelers from EU Biometric Entry Rules
In a significant move to alleviate airport congestion, Greece has announced that British passport holders are now exempt from the European Union's new biometric entry and exit system (EES) requirements. This decision, effective immediately, aims to cut waiting times and enhance the travel experience for thousands of UK tourists heading to Greek destinations this summer.
Background on the EU Entry and Exit System
The EES, which became fully operational on April 10, 2026, mandates that all travelers from non-EU countries, including the UK, undergo biometric checks at EU airports and border points. These checks involve photographing and fingerprinting to replace traditional passport stamps. Initially, holidaymakers were warned of potential delays of up to four hours due to these new procedures, sparking concerns over chaos during peak travel seasons.
Impact on UK Travelers and Greek Tourism
Eleni Skarveli, Director of the Greek National Tourism Organisation in the UK, stated that this exemption will ensure a smoother and more efficient arrival experience in Greece, significantly reducing waiting times. Given the high volume of daily arrivals from the UK to islands like Corfu, Crete, and Rhodes, the move has been widely welcomed. Industry experts suggest that other Mediterranean countries might follow Greece's lead to avoid similar disruptions and maintain tourist inflows.
Potential Delays in Other EU Countries
Despite Greece's exemption, travelers to other EU nations could still face substantial delays. Luke Petherbridge, director of public affairs at Abta, advised passengers to prepare for possible hold-ups by carrying extra water and snacks. Reports indicate that queues at passport control have already reached up to two hours in some European countries since the EES rollout began late last year. Airline groups warn that these waits could double to four hours as summer holiday traffic increases, compounded by risks such as IT glitches, strikes, and staff shortages.
How the EES System Works
The entry and exit system is a digital framework designed to streamline border management across the EU. Key features include:
- Registration of passport details and biometric data (fingerprints and facial images) for first-time visitors from outside the EU.
- Use of self-service kiosks at borders for data input.
- Storage of this information for future visits, with subsequent trips requiring only biometric verification to expedite the process.
This system aims to enhance security and efficiency but has raised operational challenges during its initial implementation phase.
