EU's New EES Biometric Kiosks to Revamp UK Border Security

Published Date : 7/7/2025 

The European Union's Entry/Exit System (EES) is set to launch in October, requiring non-EU travelers to undergo biometric checks at UK ports like Dover. This shift introduces self-service kiosks for facial scans, fingerprinting, and passport logging, aiming to enhance border security and streamline immigration processes. Challenges include potential delays and technical issues, but officials emphasize the long-term benefits of digital border management. 

The European Union’s Entry/Exit System (EES) is set to roll out this October, introducing biometric border checks for all non-EU travelers. The UK’s busiest port, Dover, is facing potential delays as drivers and coach passengers will undergo facial biometric scans, fingerprinting, and passport logging before boarding ferries to France. This system, designed to track non-EU, non-EEA, and non-Swiss nationals, captures face and fingerprint biometrics and passport data at every entry and exit, recording dates and locations of travel to enhance security and curb overstays. n n nThe EES is a digital border management scheme for the Schengen area, aiming to streamline immigration processes across member states. In June, EU Commissioner Magnus Brunner confirmed that all required readiness declarations are in place, greenlighting an October start. France’s approval this summer marks the final hurdle, following earlier clearances from Germany, the Netherlands, and other Schengen countries. A formal regulation is expected to be signed this month, launching a six-month window for full EES implementation. n n nPort of Dover Chief Executive Doug Bannister warns of ‘big changes’ come autumn. The port has revised plans to avoid long tailbacks, opting for self-service kiosks where drivers will park on newly reclaimed land, exit their vehicles, and register biometrics before proceeding to the eastern docks for final passport checks. Coach passengers will follow a similar routine, using 24 self-service kiosks in a holding area before their buses are sealed and allowed to proceed to the ferry terminal. n n nThe EU border agency Frontex has launched a ‘Travel to Europe’ app, allowing passengers to scan passports and take a selfie at home to speed up border queues. However, Dover does not expect the app to be operational during the initial EES rollout, meaning most travelers will rely on the kiosks. Eurostar previously used self-serve kiosks at St Pancras station, relying on face biometric technology from iProov and Entrust’s IDVaaS for digital travel credential management. n n nWhile the pre-registration app may not be used for every border crossing, big travel hubs will see clear value, according to Frontex Deputy Executive Director Uku Särekanno. ‘The app is ready to be used with the start of the EES in the coming autumn,’ he said. ‘Now it is up to every Member State to integrate the app with its national systems.’ n n nSix months after EES is fully live, travelers will need pre-travel clearance via ETIAS, Europe’s answer to the U.S. ESTA system. The online authorization will cost €7 (US$8.21) initially and grant multiple entries over three years or until a passport expires. Passengers are urged to plan for longer waits as the new biometric checks bed in, but repeat trips could become smoother with stored biometric credentials replacing manual passport checks. n n nAirports in Spain and Portugal are also preparing for the EES. Spain’s Murcia International Airport is finalizing its biometric border control system, while Portugal’s airports have faced delays due to increased passenger traffic. Officials attribute these challenges to the adaptation period required for new systems, including VIS4 and PASSE+ technologies. Steps like network reinforcement and additional equipment are being taken to resolve delays and improve service. n n nThe EES rollout highlights the complexities of implementing large-scale biometric systems. While challenges like kiosk malfunctions and network issues are expected, the long-term goal is to enhance security and efficiency. As the UK and EU prepare for this transformation, travelers must stay informed about the new requirements and potential disruptions. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS): 

Q: When is the EES system launching in the UK?

A: The EES system is set to launch in October, with a six-month implementation period for full rollout across EU ports and airports.

Q: What changes will travelers face at Dover port?

A: Drivers and coach passengers will use self-service kiosks for facial scans, fingerprinting, and passport logging. Parking areas and registration processes have been restructured to avoid delays.

Q: How does the 'Travel to Europe' app work?

A: The app allows passengers to scan passports and take a selfie at home to pre-register for biometric checks. However, it may not be operational during the initial EES rollout at UK ports.

Q: Why are there delays at Portuguese airports?

A: Delays are attributed to increased passenger traffic and the adaptation period required for new biometric systems. Officials are addressing issues through network upgrades and additional equipment.

Q: What is ETIAS, and when will it be required?

A: ETIAS is Europe’s online travel authorization system, similar to the U.S. ESTA. It will be required six months after the EES launch, costing €7 for multiple entries over three years. 

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