The UK Transport Secretary, Heidi Alexander, has met with her European counterpart to discuss the new EU Entry/Exit System (EES) and its potential impact on British holidaymakers. The system, which requires enhanced security checks for non-EU passengers entering Schengen countries, was rolled out in stages from October 2025, but full implementation is now under way.
Since April this year, travellers have had to register at the border by scanning their passport and providing biometric data, including photographs and fingerprints. While these checks will largely take place within EU member states, those using ferry services or trains into the EU will undergo them in the UK.
A £20 million funding boost has been announced for Kent to upgrade infrastructure, such as increasing passport check booths at the Port of Dover and enhancing vehicle processing capacity. This is in addition to a previous investment of £10.5 million across Eurotunnel, Eurostar, and Dover, aimed at reducing wait times and mitigating disruption.
Transport Secretary Alexander expressed her confidence that the EU Commissioner understood the concerns of holidaymakers and recognised the importance of joint efforts to facilitate smooth journeys. Industry leaders have welcomed government support, with Doug Bannister, CEO at the Port of Dover, highlighting its crucial role in preparing for peak travel season.