EU Launches Biometric Border System as Travellers Face Delays at Airports

The European Union’s new digital border system, requiring travellers to submit fingerprints and photographs alongside passport checks, is being rolled out across the Schengen Area, with full implementation targeted from Friday.

The Entry/Exit System (EES) is designed to track when non-EU citizens enter and leave participating countries, replacing the traditional method of passport stamping. The system applies to 29 countries within the Schengen zone, including popular tourist destinations such as France, Spain, Portugal, Italy, and Greece.

Under the new rules, travellers will have their biometric data recorded the first time they cross a Schengen border. This includes fingerprint scans and a facial photograph, which will be stored digitally for future visits.

The system began a phased introduction in October, with authorities planning a gradual rollout over six months. However, officials have confirmed that not all border crossing points are yet fully operational due to technical and logistical challenges.

Airports across Europe have already reported disruptions linked to the new process. At Geneva, a key hub for winter tourism, passengers experienced long queues earlier this year as the system was tested.

Travel experts say the delays are largely due to the additional time required for biometric registration, particularly for first-time users, as well as IT issues affecting processing speeds. They warn that queues could worsen during peak holiday periods, when passenger numbers increase significantly.

Despite the early difficulties, EU officials maintain that the EES will ultimately strengthen border security and improve efficiency by creating a more accurate and automated record of travellers’ movements.

For now, passengers are being advised to allow extra time at airports and prepare for possible delays as the system continues to be introduced across the region.