The new much publicised European Entry and Exit travel system which involves fingerprint and facial recognition for British travellers entering the European Union could be delayed yet again.
The new system should have been introduced at Palma airport on November 10 but it now could be delayed for a third time because some European countries are not ready. Airlines are said to be furious at the prospect of a further delay.
The Entry/Exit System (EES) is an automated IT system for registering travellers from third-countries (including Britain), both short-stay visa holders and visa exempt travellers, each time they cross a European Union external border.
The system will register the person's name, type of the travel document, biometric data (fingerprints and captured facial images) and the date and place of entry and exit, in full respect of fundamental rights and data protection.
According to the European Union the Entry/Exit System will modernise external border management by improving the quality and efficiency of controls as well as the detection of document and identity fraud. The system will apply to all non-EU nationals who are admitted for a short stay into the Schengen area (maximum 90 days in any 180-day period).
However, there are fears that the new system could lead to long queues at Palma airport as British travellers battle to understand and use the new system.
5 comments
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Stan The ManSo you believe any country who will have the same system are treating tourists like criminals? Like the US and many South East Asian countries? What a peculiar attitude.
BeachcomberSo the will the same thing happens when the UK introduce the same system planned in the spring of 2025 at £10? Tourists will flock elsewhere?
Just bin the whole idea after so many delays stretching back years and I agree that visitors from 1st world countries should not be subjected to all the expected delays. Turkey must be rubbing their hands in delight at this huge EU failure as tourists flock there instead. It’s going to be a long winter and quiet summer for EU destinations except for the likes of Cyprus and Ireland who are not taking part in the Ill thought scheme.
Stan The ManWhat is wrong with having ID, it stops identity fraud. Only if you have something to hide should you worry.
The Tourist will be treated like a criminal. Photograph and finger printing. Is this another method of catching undesirable people, or wanted criminals. Either way the delays and treatment Tourists will be subjected to, will be another anti tourist holiday move.