Travelers heading to Europe this spring should brace for potential delays at airports as the European Union introduces its new Entry/Exit System (EES) on 10 April. This system, replacing traditional passport stamps with biometric registration, will impact non-EU visitors, including those from the UK, US, Canada, and Australia.

The EES aims to modernize border controls by recording fingerprints and facial images of first-time visitors to the Schengen Area. However, the initial implementation phase could lead to longer processing times at major airports such as Paris, Rome, Barcelona, and Amsterdam, particularly during the busy Easter and spring break periods.

Vykintas Maknickas, CEO of eSIM provider Saily, notes, “Whilst the scheme is designed to modernise border controls and tighten security, the early days of the rollout could bring delays, especially at busy hubs.” The transition may see the introduction of new self-service kiosks and separate EES lanes, potentially extending border checks.

The timing coincides with the start of Europe’s high season for travel, which could exacerbate delays. Maknickas advises travelers to allow extra time for arrivals, keep passports ready, and follow airport signage closely. Ensuring mobile connectivity for accessing travel documents and updates is also recommended.

Whilst EU passport holders are exempt from the EES, non-EU nationals visiting for short stays must comply. The EU anticipates that the system will streamline border management in the long term, but travelers should prepare for an adjustment period.