Biometric Checks for Cross-Channel Travel Delayed Ahead of EU Deadline

Original: Biometric checks stalled again for cross-Channel travellers

The Guardian•Apr 4, 20264 min

In a Nutshell

Passengers traveling from the UK to France will not face new biometric checks at the border despite the EU's upcoming entry-exit system (EES) deadline on April 10. Delays in France's technology development have stalled the implementation, leading to concerns about potential chaos during the Easter holiday travel season.

Key Points

01Biometric checks for cross-Channel travelers are delayed due to technology issues in France.
02The EU's entry-exit system (EES) will require biometric data from non-EU travelers starting April 10.
03Current passport checks will continue for Eurotunnel, Eurostar, and ferry passengers.
04Airlines and airports are concerned about increased delays during the busy Easter travel period.
05Calls have been made for the EU to postpone the full rollout of EES due to operational challenges.

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Full Summary

Passengers traveling from the UK to France will not be subjected to new biometric checks in the immediate future, despite the European Union's entry-exit system (EES) set to come into effect on April 10. This delay is attributed to France's inability to provide the necessary technology for processing biometric data. As a result, travelers using Eurotunnel's Le Shuttle service, Eurostar, or cross-channel ferries will continue with the current passport stamping process. Only specific groups, such as lorry drivers and coach passengers, have been undergoing biometric checks since November. The EES, which aims to collect biometric information from non-EU citizens, has already faced challenges at various European airports, leading to significant delays. Trade bodies representing airlines and airports have expressed concerns about the potential for long queues during the Easter holiday, urging the European Commission to consider suspending EES if necessary. Ryanair's CEO, Michael O’Leary, criticized the system, calling it a

Key Figures

£60m

Investment by Getlink for kiosks to prepare for EES implementation

£10m

Investment by Eurostar for automated kiosks at London St Pancras

4 hours

Potential queue times at some airports due to EES implementation

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Why It Matters

Travelers can continue to use existing passport checks without the added stress of biometric data collection, but delays may still occur during peak travel times.

Who is affected

UK travelers heading to France, particularly during the Easter holiday.

What to know

Travelers should allow extra time for checks but can proceed as per their ticketed schedule.

FAQ

The entry-exit system (EES) is an EU initiative that requires biometric data from non-EU travelers at borders.

Delays are due to France's lack of the necessary technology to process biometric information.

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