The European Union is set to launch its long-delayed biometric border system, the Entry/Exit System (EES), on 12 October 2025.

 

The new rules will require all non-EU travellers, including Britons post-Brexit, to register fingerprints and facial images at entry points to the Schengen zone.

 

Officials have promised the system will modernise border control, improve security, and reduce fraud. However, concerns remain about the potential for severe delays at ports, airports, and train stations. Unlike airports where passengers are used to long queues, cross-Channel travellers face an added burden: completing checks before even beginning their journey.

 

 

Operators including Eurostar, Eurotunnel, and the Port of Dover have invested millions in new kiosks, booths, and technology to ease the transition. Eurotunnel, which has spent €80m on infrastructure, claims its system can process 2,000 people per hour. The Port of Dover has also poured £17m into new facilities, though plans were altered last year to move kiosks further from the docks.

 

Despite readiness claims, critics fear renewed traffic chaos at key entry points—especially Dover, where Brexit-related checks have already caused long tailbacks. A phased rollout over six to nine months is now planned, giving operators more breathing space. Still, delays seem inevitable, especially for drivers who will be asked to leave their vehicles for biometric checks unless exempt.

 

With the UK now treated like any other non-EU country, British travellers may face the sharpest shock. The EU insists the system is necessary for stronger borders, but whether it delivers efficiency—or gridlock—remains to be seen.

 

Key Takeaways:

 

From 12 October, non-EU travellers must register fingerprints and photos at Schengen borders.

 

Eurotunnel and Dover have spent heavily on new systems, but delays remain a major concern.

 

Adapted From:

 

https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/sep/27/will-the-eu-new-fingerprint-entry-system-cause-gridlock-the-guardian-tried-it-out

 

This won't be any inconvenience to the inflatable boat passengers. 

1 hour ago, Bacon1 said:

The new rules will require all non-EU travellers, including Britons post-Brexit, to register fingerprints and facial images at entry points to the Schengen zone.

 

Do those fingerprint scanners come in a waterproof marine model?  For the dinghies...

The delays will resolve themselves within a year. As more people are entered into the system, they won't have the same delays when they pass the border again.