As of April 10, under the new entry and exit system (EES), all travellers from non-EU countries are required to undergo biometrics, with photographs and fingerprints at EU airports and border points. Tourists were warned of airport delays for up to four hours because of the EU’s new biometric entry and exit checks, but now, Greece is removing the biometric system for UK citizens.
The Director of the Greek National Tourism Organisation in the UK, Eleni Skarveli, states that this move would ‘ensure a smoother and more efficient arrival experience in Greece’ and eliminate waiting times.
However, Greece drops the requirement, other countries could still see heavy delays for travellers.
What is the EU Entry and Exit (EES) system?
The EU Entry and Exit is a digital system that replaces physical passport stamps at border points across the European Union. People of non-EU countries with passports are required to use the system once it launches.
Under this, the biometric data includes your fingerprints and facial pictures. Borders are likely to be self-service, where passengers can input this information. This data, as well as the entry and exit details, will be stored for subsequent visits.
They must also answer some questions about their visit, such as whether they have somewhere to stay, enough money for their trip, and a return ticket.
EU Entry and Exit System drops for UK Travellers
Now, UK travellers don’t need to spend hours standing in a long queue for biometrics. British tourists can continue their trips to Greece without the hassle of biometric scans.
For many travellers, this change means faster and more efficient passport control. Tourists can move swiftly through the borders and get a seamless experience.
What Greece’s Exemption of Biometric means for UK Tourists?
Since the introduction of the EU Entry and Exit system, traveling has become more complex, but after its exemption, UK travelers are at ease.
For British passport holders, the entry process remains the same as it was before the introduction of the EU system.
Why did Greece make this change?
According to the Greek government, this change is made to make arriving in Greece as seamless and welcoming as possible.
