As the October deadline for new post-Brexit entry rules approaches, dozens of European Union (EU) airports are not ready for the changes.
This situation could disrupt British travelers’ plans and shows the difficulties of implementing Brexit-related policies.
Fingerprinting fiasco at small airports
Many smaller airports across the EU have not yet installed the required fingerprinting technology for the new European Entry-Exit System (EES).
This system, which will check biometric data of travelers from non-EU countries, including British citizens, when they first enter the EU, is set to be implemented in October.
The lack of preparedness could lead to significant delays and confusion for travelers.
Tim Reardon, Dover's representative for EU exit, told the Telegraph that there is no confirmation on the EES operation yet. This uncertainty increases concerns about the system's rollout.
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Mobile app delays compound problem
The EES mobile application, meant to make the entry process faster, may not be ready by October. This delay could make waiting times longer for British travelers at EU borders.
The app is designed to register everyone entering the EU, including visa-exempt travelers and short-stay visa holders, making it a crucial component of the new system.
Possible additional security for travelers
The implementation of the EES and the related ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) will impact different types of travelers and immigrants.
While short-term visitors will need to go through new biometric checks, longer-term travelers such as students, digital nomads, and investors may face additional scrutiny. The ETIAS, which is separate from but related to the EES, will require pre-travel authorization for visa-exempt travelers, making EU entry procedures more complicated.
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Another reassessment of timeline
The challenges with the EES implementation show the broader problems facing EU immigration policy after Brexit.
The new system aims to improve border security and manage migration better, especially with the record-high irregular migration to the EU.
However, the technical and logistical hurdles encountered during its rollout may cause a reevaluation of the timeline and method for implementing such large-scale border control measures.
Public perception and travel plans
The upcoming changes are already affecting travel decisions.
A Department for Transport survey revealed that 15% of people in England said they would be less likely to travel to Europe once the EES is introduced.
This shift in public opinion could have significant implications for tourism and cross-border relations between the UK and EU countries.
EU airports rush to meet deadline
As the October deadline approaches, the EU is in a hurry to ensure its airports are equipped to handle the new entry requirements. How well this rollout goes will affect British travelers and set an example for future border control projects.
With the stakes high and time running short, all eyes will be on how smoothly the transition to the new system unfolds.