Trade ramps up preparations for EU’s Entry/Exit System

The trade is ramping up efforts to prepare customers for the introduction of the EU’s new Entry/Exit System (EES) next month as the government’s official public awareness campaign begins.

From October 12, UK travellers and other non-EU nationals will have to register their passport and have their photograph and fingerprints taken on arrival in the EU. Subsequent visits in the following three years will require only a fingerprint or photo.

As part of a UK government campaign, unveiled this week, messages about the new border checks will be shared on government social media channels, by transport operators and on travel websites.

The Travel Network Group (TTNG) director of membership services Stephanie Slark said: “We welcome the government’s initiative to raise awareness with consumers, as this will help ensure they are not caught off guard when it begins.”

TTNG offers its members EES guidance via its ‘digital assistant’ and is creating a document that agents will be able to share with clients.

“Our focus is on supporting our members with the tools and information they need so that they can reassure their customers and ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience,” Slark added.

Advantage Travel Partnership chief executive Julia Lo Bue-Said said the consortium was undertaking “comprehensive communications” with members and would also be using social media to let travellers know about rule changes.

She added: “There is a duty of care for all travel agents and travel companies to share the changes with travellers. Everybody can do their bit to ensure the transition goes as smoothly as possible.”

Over-50s specialist agency Silver Travel Advisor confirmed it had also been “proactively” advising clients about the new requirements.

Managing director Kerry Gallagher said: “There’s a lack of awareness about the new rules, but with some clear guidance we are making sure customers understand that it’s not a barrier to travel.”

The EES will be launched over six months, with at least 10% of border crossings operating the rules from day one and 50% by day 90.

The Foreign Office has advised travellers to the EU that they “may experience longer queue times”. 

Abta said agents should use the government’s toolkit, adding that the association had hosted a call with members this week.