Advantage education programme to prepare members for EES rollout

The Advantage Travel Partnership has introduced a “comprehensive education programme” to prepare members for the introduction of the European Union’s Entry/Exit System (EES) on Sunday October 12.

The consortium said the guide and campaign “will provide necessary clarity on the new system after recent research indicated that 60% (two-thirds) of travellers are unaware of the upcoming changes”.

A webinar for members will be held on Wednesday (October 1), with members of the Cabinet Office attending.

A selection of assets has also been created to help members advise customers.

The EES will be gradually introduced across EU member states over the next six months, and will require non-EU nationals to provide fingerprints and a facial image at automated kiosks upon entry.

Julia Lo Bue-Said, Advantage Travel Partnership chief executive, said: "While concerns about travel delays are understandable, we don’t expect biometric capture to cause significant disruption.

“The process is required only once per three-year period on first entry. By April 2026, automated border controls and self-service systems will be fully deployed across all checkpoints, speeding up processing times considerably.

“In the meantime, some delays may occur during peak times, but since entry points are going live gradually, most travellers should see minimal changes initially.”

She added: “The new EU rules make travel agents even more valuable as they can provide all the relevant information, ensuring that they are fully prepared for the changes.”