The European Union's Entry/Exit System (EES) was fully implemented across European airports on April 10, 2026, according to reports. The system requires all British citizens traveling to the Schengen zone to create a digital record and register biometric information, including fingerprints and a photograph, upon initial arrival at airport borders within the Schengen area. This registration is valid for three years after the first entry and is free of charge, with no action required before arriving at the border.
Greece has opted to waive the EU requirement for British passport holders to provide fingerprints and facial scans at airport border controls as part of the EES, according to the Greek Embassy. Greek authorities have indicated that they will not collect biometric data for UK travelers as part of the EES, as stated by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office. The exemption for British passport holders from biometric registration at Greek border crossing points took effect on April 10, 2026.
According to reports, Greece chose to abandon the new biometric security measures due to concerns about substantial travel disruption they were generating at airports, seriously affecting holidaymakers. Reports also indicate that the eased EU regulations from Greece are expected to enhance travel for Brits entering the country, facilitating a more seamless journey without arduous waiting periods and hold-ups.
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office advises UK residents in Greece to show their residence documentation at passport control to ensure they are not registered in the EES. Travelers to Greece are urged to follow advice from authorities on the ground.
The Schengen area encompasses 29 countries, including Greece, according to reports. It remains unclear how long the exemption from biometric registration for British passport holders in Greece will remain in force. Whether other Schengen countries are considering similar exemptions or contingency measures to alleviate EES-related travel disruptions is also unknown. The exact number of British travelers affected by delays or missed flights due to the EES rollout across Europe has not been confirmed. Whether the Greek exemption applies to all border crossing points, such as land and sea, or only airports is also unspecified.