The European Union's Entry/Exit System (EES) was fully rolled out earlier this month, according to reports. Since the EES rollout, widespread travel disruption has ensued at airports across Europe, sources indicate. Holidaymakers have reported significant queues and delays at airports across Europe, with some lasting up to four hours. Hundreds have missed flights due to the new EES system, according to reports.
Greece has opted to waive the EU requirement for Brits to provide fingerprints and facial scans at airport border controls. As of 10 April 2026, British passport holders are exempt from biometric registration at Greek border crossing points. The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) revised its travel guidance for Greece on Monday, 20 April. Greek authorities have indicated that they will not collect biometric data for UK travellers as part of EES.
While for many the travel experience remains smooth, we're disappointed and frustrated to see some passengers being caught up in delays due to EES. ABTA has been warning destinations and the (European) Commission for some time about the need for proactive steps to be taken to avoid delays, including the full use of contingency measures to stand down biometric checks at busier times, and adequate staffing, especially at peak times.
The EES requires all Brits travelling to the Schengen zone to create a digital record and register their biometric information, including fingerprints and a photograph, according to EU regulations. The EES is required for the initial arrival at the airport border within the Schengen area, and following the first registration, it remains valid for three years.
Greece chose to abandon the new biometric security measures following concerns about the substantial travel disruption they were generating at airports. The eased EU regulations from Greece are expected to enhance travel for Brits entering the country. According to Daily Express - Travel, Luke Petherbridge, director of public affairs at ABTA, described disappointment and frustration over passengers being caught up in EES delays, while noting that travel remains smooth for many.
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 to Greece's EES waiver is also unknown. The specific number of British travelers affected by the EES-related delays and missed flights has not been confirmed, and the full extent of the travel disruption caused by EES across all European airports is still being assessed.