The European Union’s new Entry/Exit System (EES), which is due to launch in November, could be delayed again, says a report.
France, Germany and the Netherlands have written to EU home affairs commissioner Ylva Johansson warning that they will not be ready in time for the start of EES on November 10, according to the Guardian.
The newspaper reported that several sources said the three countries are concerned about the lack of testing of the system, which will mean non-EU travellers will have to register their fingerprint and have their photo taken on the first time they cross the border.
UK transport operators were briefed by government officials last week to expect a further delay, added the Guardian.
The introduction of the new system is expected to lead to delays for arrivals visiting the EU because it will take border guards up to two minutes longer to process each passenger.
Earlier this month, the UK Foreign Office warned travellers they could face longer queues when the new Schengen border rules start in November.
The EES will affect all non-EU nationals, including British nationals, travelling in or out of the Schengen area, which is made up of 29 European countries, 25 of which are EU Member States.
The start of EES has already been delayed twice – it was postponed from summer 2023 as French officials were concerned about the impact on the rugby World Cup last autumn and this summer’s Olympics.
It was rescheduled for October 6, 2024, but then pushed back until November over concerns about school holiday visitors.
The Guardian said France’s main concern is congestion in Dover (pictured), where British and French border controls take place.
Abta plans to hold a conference call for members on the new rules on September 24.