When it comes to biometric checks stalled again for cross-channel travellers , passengers traveling from the UK to France will not be subjected to new biometric checks in the immediate future, despite the European Union's upcoming deadline for implementing its Entry-Exit System (EES). Port authorities have confirmed that travelers using Eurotunnel's Le Shuttle, cross-Channel ferries, or Eurostar services will continue to experience the traditional passport stamping process due to delays in the French government's technology rollout.
The EU is poised to require biometric data from most non-EU citizens, including British nationals, beginning April 10. This new requirement aims to streamline border control processes but has raised concerns among airlines and airports about potential chaos during the busy Easter holiday period. The phased introduction of this system has already led to significant delays at several European airports. Originally reported by The Guardian.
Understanding Biometric Checks Stalled Again For Cross-Channel Travellers
Sources from the Port of Dover and Eurotunnel indicated that French authorities have yet to provide the necessary technology to implement biometric checks effectively. Currently, the French border control will continue to wet-stamp passports for travelers departing from England. The only passengers who will experience the EES formalities are lorry drivers, coach passengers, and foot passengers on ferries, who have been subject to biometric checks since November.
This delay in implementing biometric checks raises questions about the readiness of the French border control system. A spokesperson for the Port of Dover stated, "We are working closely with our French border agency partners to ensure a smooth introduction of EES for tourist passengers, which includes waiting until current issues with the French technology are resolved and thorough testing at Dover has been conducted." In the meantime, Eurotunnel and Eurostar have reassured passengers that they should arrive as per their travel tickets, despite the Home Office's advice to allow for extra time due to potential delays.
Investment in Infrastructure
Getlink, the operator of the Eurotunnel, has invested over £60 million in kiosks at both Folkestone in the UK and Coquelles in France to prepare for the EES launch, which was initially scheduled for last autumn. Eurostar has also spent approximately £10 million on automated kiosks at London St Pancras, which remain unused. Meanwhile, the Port of Dover has made significant changes, including restructuring road layouts and constructing new facilities in anticipation of the new system.
Despite the ongoing challenges, Eurotunnel has stated that the EES will take a further operational step on April 10, with the Police aux Frontières beginning the creation of EES files. However, they clarified that this stage will not involve the collection of biometric data. Eurostar also mentioned that they are collaborating closely with French and EU authorities as they continue to roll out the next phases of the system.
Concerns from Airlines and Airports
As the April 10 deadline approaches, anxiety is palpable among European airlines and airports. The trade organizations A4E, which represents many large European airlines, and ACI Europe, which represents airports, have publicly expressed their concerns. They issued a joint statement highlighting "persistent operational challenges" and warned passengers to expect increasing delays during the Easter holiday period. They have urged the European Commission to maintain a full suspension of the EES if necessary, citing that long queues at borders are becoming the norm and undermining air travel.
Michael O'Leary, CEO of Ryanair, has been particularly vocal about the EES, labeling it a "shit show and a shambles" and calling it a punishment for Brexit. He has advocated for the EU to postpone the full introduction of the system until October, reflecting the frustration within the travel industry over the current state of border control processes.
With the EU's websites still indicating that biometric data will be required for entry into the Schengen area after April 10, the situation remains fluid. The European Commission has granted border officials the discretion to ease rules temporarily if queues become excessive, a measure expected to remain in place until at least the end of July. However, the uncertainty surrounding the technology and the rollout's effectiveness continues to loom over travel plans for many.
Originally reported by The Guardian. View original.