Brits face mandatory fingerprint scans for every EU trip
- British citizens will need to have fingerprints scanned on each trip to the EU due to delays in biometric software development.
- Significant changes in travel procedures will start in November 2025 as the new system is gradually implemented.
- The introduction of fingerprint scanning aims to modernize border control, eliminate wet stamping of passports, and improve tracking of visitor durations.
In recent developments concerning travel between the United Kingdom and the European Union, British citizens will now need to submit to fingerprint scans each time they enter the EU. These measures are due to significant delays in the implementation of a new biometric entry system initially planned for introduction in 2024. This biometric entry mechanism is specifically targeted at non-EU travelers and aims to modernize and streamline the passport control process in the Schengen area. Currently, every UK passenger is required to leave their vehicle at border controls to undergo individual fingerprinting and photography. As the implementation of this technology is anticipated to roll out in the autumn of 2025, numerous preparations are being made at key transit points, particularly at the Port of Dover. Doug Bannister, the port’s chief executive, stated that while operations will remain unchanged for the summer, significant changes will indeed take place starting in November. The anticipated procedures are aimed at easing the flow of passenger traffic and ensuring better monitoring of the duration of visitors’ stays in the EU, aiming to do away with traditional passport 'wet stamping.' Technology is being applied to improve security measures and convenience. To facilitate these changes, the Port of Dover will be overhauling its infrastructure, including reclaiming land to accommodate passenger disembarking and create a more efficient check-in system. Moreover, the Port is looking to develop a virtual system encompassing a 1.5-mile area surrounding the port for efficient processing. This strategic enhancement plans to alleviate potential congestion as the port manages high volumes of traffic, handling thousands of passenger vehicles daily during peak times. Notably, while the app developed by the EU’s border agency Frontex is being prepared for future use, it is not expected to be fully operational before November. Therefore, travelers will still be required to exit their vehicles for biometric collection until these digital advancements are finalized. In the interim, passengers should be prepared for a review process at the border, which is expected to take an additional six minutes on average per vehicle, ensuring that every traveler goes through the necessary security measures.