UK passengers face significant delays at Schengen borders due to EES implementation issues

UK passengers are facing significant delays at Schengen borders due to ongoing implementation issues with the Entry/Exit System (EES), while the separate ETIAS delayed rollout continues to complicate travel planning. On April 25, 2026, significant disruptions occurred at Milan Linate Airport as 122 UK passengers missed an easyJet flight to Manchester following hours-long queues at passport control.www.traveltourister.comwww.biometricupdate.com

Fully implemented across 29 Schengen countries since April 10, the EES requires non-EU travelers to submit fingerprints and photos upon entry. This system replaces manual passport stamps but has resulted in 2-4 hour waits due to technical glitches, understaffing, and the time required for first-time biometric enrollments.aerospaceglobalnews.com Airlines have stated these delays fall outside their control, disqualifying passengers from standard compensation.

The disruptions extend beyond Italy; airports in Portugal temporarily suspended EES biometric checks on April 11 to manage excessive lines, while Greece has exempted British passport holders to streamline summer tourism.www.euronews.com As peak travel season approaches, industry groups including Airlines for Europe and Airports Council International Europe are urging authorities to suspend biometric checks to prevent further missed flights.

Compounding these issues, the ETIAS delayed rollout—originally slated for 2022—has been pushed to late 2026, as the pre-travel authorization for visa-exempt visitors remains dependent on EES stability. While EU states have the authority to pause checks temporarily, experts warn of continued network-wide delays without swift technical fixes. UK holidaymakers are advised to budget extra time, secure comprehensive travel insurance, and monitor border updates closely.