British holidaymakers could face longer waits at airports, Eurostar terminals and Channel ports when the EU introduces its new Entry/Exit System (EES). The scheme will require many non-EU travellers, including UK citizens, to provide biometric data on their first trip, raising concerns that border infrastructure may struggle during busy travel periods.

The EES is intended to replace manual passport stamping and record travellers’ entries, exits and time spent in the Schengen area. It will collect a facial image and fingerprints, with particular pressure expected at Dover, Folkestone and St Pancras because checks take place before passengers cross the Channel. Officials and transport operators have been preparing for the change, but critics warn that queues could still be substantial if processing is slow.