British holidaymakers heading to Europe this summer are being urged to verify their passports and travel documents well in advance, as new digital border checks are causing delays at European airports. The European Union's Entry/Exit System (EES), now operational across the Schengen area, replaces traditional passport stamps with digital records for non-EU travellers, including British citizens. This system records facial images, fingerprints, and passport details at the border.
Kadmos Immigration, a UK-based advisory practice, advises travellers to incorporate passport checks into their holiday planning. Helena Sheizon, founder of Kadmos Immigration, warns, "The biggest mistake families can make is assuming nothing has changed. If your passport doesn't meet the entry requirements, your holiday can be disrupted before it has even begun."
The EES requires first-time users to provide biometric information, which can extend processing times during busy periods, especially for families or large groups. Airlines have advised passengers to arrive earlier than usual as airports adjust to the new procedures.
British travellers are also reminded to check both the issue and expiry dates on their passports. A British passport must have been issued less than 10 years before the date of entry and be valid for at least three months beyond the planned departure from the Schengen area. Sheizon notes, "A passport can still appear valid, but if it was issued more than 10 years before entry, you could be refused boarding or entry."
Additionally, the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) has not yet launched, and travellers should rely on official government advice for updates. Sheizon advises, "If a website is asking you to pay for ETIAS today, that should immediately raise alarm bells."
With millions of British holidaymakers expected to travel to popular destinations like Spain, France, and Italy, Kadmos Immigration stresses the importance of preparation to avoid disruptions. "Most people will still enjoy their European holiday exactly as planned, but the margin for error is smaller than it used to be," Sheizon concludes
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