New EU Entry/Exit Border System Could Triple Passport Control Times, Airport Chief Warns

Published: 20 July 2026 | The English Chronicle Desk | The English Chronicle Online

A major new European Union border control system could significantly increase waiting times for travellers, with one airport chief warning that passport checks may take up to three times longer than they do under current procedures.

The warning comes ahead of the wider rollout of the EU’s Entry/Exit System (EES), a digital border management programme designed to strengthen security by electronically recording the movements of non-EU travellers entering and leaving the Schengen area.

While officials say the new technology will improve border security and reduce identity fraud over the long term, airports and travel operators fear its introduction could lead to lengthy queues, operational challenges and disruption during busy holiday periods.

The Entry/Exit System is a new digital border management platform that will replace the traditional practice of manually stamping passports for many travellers entering or leaving the Schengen Area.

Instead of passport stamps, the system will electronically record information including travellers’ names, passport details, dates of entry and exit, and biometric data such as fingerprints and facial images.

The European Union says the new system is intended to modernise border management, improve the detection of overstays and strengthen efforts to combat identity fraud and cross-border crime.

The database will apply primarily to visitors from countries outside the European Union travelling for short stays.

Airport operators have raised concerns that the additional biometric checks required during a traveller’s first registration could substantially increase processing times.

One airport executive has warned that passport control procedures may take up to three times longer than current inspections, particularly during the early stages of implementation.

Industry representatives fear that longer processing times could create congestion inside airport terminals, especially during peak travel seasons when passenger numbers are at their highest.

They argue that additional staffing and infrastructure may be necessary to prevent significant delays.

The biggest impact is expected to fall on travellers using the new system for the first time.

During their initial registration, passengers will be required to provide biometric information alongside their travel documents.

Subsequent journeys are expected to be faster because much of the required information will already be stored within the system.

However, transport experts caution that the first months following implementation could prove particularly challenging as millions of travellers complete the registration process.

Airports across Europe have been preparing for the introduction of the Entry/Exit System by installing new equipment and training border personnel.

Many terminals are introducing automated kiosks and biometric scanning technology designed to speed up passenger processing.

Airlines are also advising passengers to allow extra time when travelling internationally after the system becomes operational.

Some carriers have updated their travel guidance to encourage passengers to arrive earlier than usual, particularly for flights departing during busy periods.

European Union officials maintain that the Entry/Exit System represents a major improvement in border security.

By replacing manual passport stamps with electronic records, authorities expect to improve the accuracy of border data while making it easier to identify individuals who overstay visa-free travel limits.

Officials also argue that biometric verification will reduce opportunities for document fraud and strengthen external border controls.

They acknowledge that there may be temporary operational challenges but believe the long-term benefits will outweigh initial disruption.

Travel organisations have expressed concern that longer border procedures could affect tourism.

Holidaymakers unfamiliar with the new requirements may experience confusion during the early stages of implementation.

Industry groups have urged governments and airport authorities to provide clear public information explaining how the new system works.

They also recommend increasing staffing levels during the transition period to minimise delays.

Tourism businesses hope that any disruption will be temporary as travellers become more familiar with the process.

British citizens travelling to many European destinations are expected to be among those using the Entry/Exit System following the UK’s departure from the European Union.

Travel experts advise UK passengers to check entry requirements before departure and allow additional time for border formalities.

The new system will operate separately from the forthcoming European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), which will introduce a separate pre-travel authorisation requirement for eligible visitors.

Together, the two programmes represent the most significant changes to European border controls in many years.

Despite concerns about initial delays, many border management specialists believe digital systems will eventually improve efficiency.

Once passenger information has been registered, automated processing could reduce reliance on manual document inspections.

Digital border management is already used successfully in several countries around the world, where biometric technology has helped improve both security and passenger flow.

Experts believe the key challenge will be managing the transition rather than the technology itself.

Travel organisations are encouraging passengers to prepare carefully before travelling.

Checking passport validity, understanding entry requirements and arriving at airports earlier than normal may help reduce stress during the rollout period.

Airlines are also expected to issue updated guidance as implementation dates approach.

Authorities hope that increased public awareness will reduce confusion and allow border officials to process passengers more efficiently.

The European Union’s Entry/Exit System represents one of the most significant changes to border management in recent years.

While officials believe the digital platform will strengthen security and modernise immigration controls, airport operators remain concerned about the potential for longer queues and operational disruption during its introduction.

As airports, airlines and border agencies continue preparations, travellers are being encouraged to familiarise themselves with the new procedures and allow extra time for international journeys.

If successfully implemented, the system could eventually provide faster, more secure border crossings—but the transition period is likely to test airports and passengers alike.

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