Since the EU's new biometric entry-exit system (EES) was introduced in April 2026, UK travellers have faced extended waits at Schengen border controls, with the Airports Council International reporting queues of up to five hours at some airports. For passengers with disabilities, limited mobility or injuries, these delays can present serious practical challenges.
Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport has integrated EES kiosks into its assistance lounges and introduced a dedicated reduced-mobility lane at border crossings. Passengers who book assistance when purchasing their ticket can be guided by staff through the process. Those travelling on transfer caddies are taken via a separate passage for EES processing without needing to dismount. The Royal Netherlands Marechaussee, which operates border control, says that if self-service machines cannot be used, officers will manually register passport details, fingerprints and facial images at the booths.
In Spain, the airport operator Aena has set up separate queues for families and passengers with reduced mobility at Madrid-Barajas and Barcelona-El Prat airports, allowing them to use manual passport control instead of the automated kiosks. Similar arrangements are expected at other major Schengen hubs, though Paris Charles de Gaulle and Frankfurt airports have not yet confirmed their provisions.
For passengers with non-visible disabilities, the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower network is recognised at 340 airports across 70 countries and by 31 airlines. Wearing a Sunflower lanyard or carrying an ID card signals to trained staff that you may need extra support, and typically grants access to assistance lanes. There is no qualifying list of conditions — the scheme is open to anyone who feels they may benefit.
Under EES regulations, if a passenger is physically unable to provide fingerprints due to a hand impairment, they are exempt from that requirement. For temporary impairments, border staff will note the reason on the system. The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office advises travellers with disabilities to contact their airline and airport in advance to confirm the specific assistance available, and to check travel insurance policies for cover related to medical conditions and mobility equipment.