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EU’s New Biometric Travel Rules Face Another Delay

EU’s New Biometric Travel Rules Face Another Delay

Author: admin | 01 Oct 2025

The European Union’s long-awaited biometric border control system, the Entry/Exit System (EES), has been delayed once again. Its full implementation is now scheduled for April 2026. Initially set for October 12, 2025, the rollout will begin gradually. It will begin with limited checks on coach passengers and freight, and will be extended to private cars and other travelers by year-end.

Instead of manual stamping of passports of non-EU nationals (including UK passport holders) entering the Schengen Area, the EES will be used. The travelers will be requested to leave their fingerprints and a facial picture on special kiosks during their first visit. This biometric information will be kept within a span of three years and will facilitate any subsequent crossing of the border in a smoother and secure manner.

Eurotunnel, along with the Eurostar and the Port of Dover, is preparing biometric kiosks ahead of the phased launch. The authorities have also built in a 90-day grace period, during which French border officials can scale back checks to prevent excessive delays. Operators have expressed their support for the phased approach. This highlights its potential to minimize the risk of long queues at the Channel crossing.

The EES, however, has faced repeated delays since its initial target in 2022. Despite this, EU officials remain confident that gradual enforcement will ensure smoother adoption. In response, Yann Leriche, Chief Executive of Getlink, which operates Eurotunnel, said that the passengers will not see any delays, as it will be a gradual introduction.

Once fully operative, the system will apply to all Schengen countries except Ireland and Cyprus. Despite the fact that the problem of data privacy remains a challenge, EU leaders hope that the new rules will ultimately help to improve efficiency and security at the border.

Worldwide Momentum Toward Biometric Border Controls

The movement in Europe towards adopting biometric border checks is a trend that continues to gain momentum worldwide. This is being emulated by other nations, among them being the US, UAE, and Singapore, which have already installed biometric systems at their airports as a means of reducing the wait time by enhancing security.  The implementation of the EU, though late, strengthens the use of biometrics as a standard for international movement.