EU to replace passport stamps with biometric checks from October 12
From October 12, UK and other non-EU travellers must submit fingerprints and facial scans at EU borders under the new Entry/Exit System.
Biometric checks to replace passport stamps
From 12 October, the EU Entry/Exit System (EES) will replace manual passport stamping at borders. Under the new scheme, non-EU travellers, including UK residents, must register their fingerprints and a facial image when entering or exiting the EU.
The system will be introduced in phases across all member states over six months, with full implementation by 10 April 2026. Planned to start last November, deployment was delayed by technical issues.
How the new system works
- Biometric data and passport details are captured at departure points—airports, ports or train stations—using dedicated booths.
- Once registered, the data remains valid for three years, enabling faster entry on subsequent trips.
- Travellers with ePassports can also use e-gates where available.
- Overstayers face a five-year data retention period.
The EU expects EES to improve security and reduce queue times in the long run, although initial checks may add several minutes. The UK government has advised travellers to prepare for possible delays during busy periods.
Since Brexit, British travellers have experienced lengthy queues at popular holiday airports and Channel crossings. The EES deal also allows UK nationals to use EU e-gates once registered.
The introduction of biometric checks aims to strengthen EU border security and streamline the entry process for millions of non-EU travellers.
This topic was reported by BBC News.
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