UK travellers face EU border checks from September 7

People flying from Britain to countries such as Spain and France are being told to be aware of the new Entry/Exit System (EES).

The automated border check is for all non-EU nationals and comes into full force on Monday, September 7.

What is the Entry/Exit System and what does it mean for the UK?

The system means anyone from third-party countries such as the UK will have to register their fingerprints and have their photograph taken before entering certain countries.

The countries this applies to are the Schengen Area, which consists of 29 European countries.

The EES was first launched back in April and caused incredibly long queues for many travellers.

A few countries have been able to pause these checks in “exceptional circumstances” such as when queues are getting too long.

However, from September 7, they will no longer be able to do this.

Places such as Greece, France, and Spain have all temporarily paused the EES during some of the countries’ busiest periods like the summer holidays.

People travelling have been told to leave extra time when getting through the border and they should expect queues.

The government has released some advice and information about the new system.

The government website says: “On your first visit to the Schengen area, you may be asked to create a digital record at the port or airport on arrival.

“You may be asked to submit your fingerprints and have your photo taken at dedicated booths.

“You don’t need to provide any information before travelling to a Schengen area country.

“The checks may take slightly longer than previously, so be prepared to wait during busy times.

“If you enter the Schengen area through the Port of Dover, Eurotunnel Le Shuttle at Folkestone or Eurostar, St Pancras International, any EES checks will be completed at the border, before you leave the UK.

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“You may also be asked to provide either your fingerprint or photo when you exit the Schengen area.”

Your digital EES record will remain valid for three years.

Will you be leaving some extra time before your flight to the EU because of the new system? Let us know in the comments.