Visitors Might Face 14-Hour Delay Post EES Implementation: UK Parliament Warns

During a hearing on January 25, the European Scrutiny Committee of the UK Parliament issued a warning, stating that visitors at the EU-UK border may have to wait up to 14 hours after the European Union implements its Entry/Exit System.

Understanding the EES and its Impact

The Entry/Exit System (EES) is an automated IT system implemented by the European Union to register travellers from non-EU countries. It applies to short-stay visa holders and visa-exempt travellers each time they cross an EU external border. 

Potential Challenges of the EES

Several parties have submitted written testimony during the hearing, including the Ashford Borough Council, the UK Inbound Travel Trade Association, the Tourism Alliance, Eurostar, & Airlines UK. The most significant concern among individuals submitting evidence was the potential for high wait times, which could impact locals living close to the border, companies, and travel.

The Ashford Borough Council, in particular, is concerned that if the system is completed in October 2024 as planned, visitors may have to wait for as long as fourteen hours at the Port of Dover in a "reasonable worst case" scenario.

Conversely, the high-speed rail operator that links London with Continental Europe, Eurostar, asserts that the EES is a system intended for airports, not city centres or terminals with limited space.

The same claims that eliminating passport stamping will be a significant advancement and that non-EU citizens' travel experiences will become more complicated. On the other hand, Airlines UK claims that the system will be advantageous in the long run. Airlines UK includes 2Excel, Ascend Airways, AirTanker, British Airways, DHL, Eastern Airways, easyJet, European Cargo, FedEx, Jet2.com, Loganair, Ryanair, TUI Airways, Titan Airways, UPS, as well as Virgin Atlantic.

To reduce potential disruptions, they advise UK border officials to proactively spread awareness about the new method.

Following the presentation of the evidence, Sir William Cash, the Chair of the European Scrutiny Committee, concurred that the EES might significantly impact local businesses and travellers. He has asked the UK to consider what lies ahead for the Port of Dover.

How can you avoid the delays?

To minimise the potential delays at the EU border due to the implementation of the Entry/Exit System (EES), consider the following strategies:

• Be Prepared: Ensure you have all necessary travel documents, including a valid passport, visa (if required), and other relevant paperwork. Having complete and accurate documentation can expedite the border process.
• Arrive Early: Arriving well before departure can help avoid rush hours and long queues. Aim to be at the border crossing point early to allow for any unexpected delays.
• Use Automated Passport Control (APC): Some border checkpoints offer automated kiosks for passport control. If available, use these self-service machines to speed up the process.
• Travel During Off-Peak Hours: Avoid peak travel times when border crossings are busiest. Consider travelling during weekdays or non-peak hours to reduce waiting times.
• Join Trusted Traveller Programs: If you frequently travel between the EU and the UK, consider enrolling in trusted traveller programs (such as Global Entry or Registered Traveler). These programs provide expedited processing for pre-approved travellers.
• Stay Informed: Keep track of any updates or changes related to border procedures. 

Remember that delays may still occur despite these precautions, especially during the initial implementation of the EES. Patience and understanding are essential during this transition period. Safe travels!

FAQs

What is the Entry/Exit System (EES), and how will it affect UK travellers?

The EES is an automated border control system implemented by the EU. It will register travellers from non-EU countries, including UK citizens, each time they enter or exit the Schengen zone. This means additional checks and potential delays at EU borders compared to the current passport stamping system.

Are there concerns about long wait times at the border after EES implementation?

The UK Parliament has warned about potential 14-hour delays, particularly at ports like Dover. This raises concerns for travellers, border communities, and businesses.

How can I minimise wait times at the EU border with the EES?

Being prepared is critical. Ensure you have all necessary documents (valid passport, visa if required) and arrive early to avoid peak travel times. Utilise automated passport control kiosks where available and consider enrolling in trusted traveller programs for faster processing. Staying informed about updates and changes to border procedures is also crucial.

Will the EES replace physical passport checks entirely?

While the EES introduces biometric checks (fingerprints and facial scans), physical passport checks might still occur in some cases. It's best always to carry your passport during your EU travels.

When will the EES be implemented, and what can I do to stay informed?

The EES is currently scheduled for launch in October 2024. Stay informed by checking official EU and UK government websites for updates, travel advisories, and detailed information about the EES and its procedures.

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