Britons planning to travel abroad will face a series of inquiries as a new border system covering the European Union is enacted. The much-awaited EU-wide border system, which has been postponed multiple times, is set to debut on October 12, overseeing the movement of “third-country nationals” within the Schengen area without the need for traditional passport stamps.
Known as the EES, this system aims to streamline travel documentation by digitizing it, ensuring compliance with the 90-day limit within a 180-day period for non-EU passport holders while bolstering border security. Information collected will be retained for up to three years, and individuals refusing to provide details risk being denied entry.
In addition to providing biometric data and undergoing passport scans, travelers will be required to respond to four specific questions, either electronically or through interaction with an immigration officer. These questions pertain to accommodation arrangements, possession of return tickets, financial means to sustain oneself during the visit, and possession of medical insurance.
The consequences of answering negatively to any of the questions or providing false information are yet to be fully elucidated. However, Simon Lejeune, Eurostar’s top security official, indicated that individuals may be referred to a border officer for further assessment and potential denial of entry if deemed necessary.
Following the initial implementation at select ports, including St Pancras, concerns have been raised regarding potential congestion issues. Nevertheless, proactive measures have been taken by Eurostar and St Pancras to mitigate such problems, with the introduction of fast-track kiosks and additional staff to facilitate the border process efficiently.
The roll-out of the EES will be gradual, initially targeting Eurostar’s Premier and Carte Blanche customers, with a limited number of regular ticket holders possibly included. Biometric data collection, such as fingerprints, will commence in mid-December for select passengers and will eventually be extended to a broader passenger base by January.
Once registered, travelers will benefit from expedited border checks for up to three years. The registration process is estimated to take around two minutes per individual, potentially leading to slightly extended processing times for first-time EES users.
In case of technical glitches, an expanded team of human border guards will be on standby to offer assistance. The number of guard booths has been increased to ensure a smooth and secure border control process for all travelers.