Passport Rule Changes Revealed As Foreign Office Issues Warning To Brits

If you're planning to travel to Europe from the UK any time soon, you'll want to take note of these upcoming changes to passports that are set to impact how Brits navigate EU borders...

The UK's Foreign Office has issued a notice for British passport holders planning to visit EU countries, as the way Brits get in and out of the EU is about to change forever.

Traditional passport stamping by border officials is being phased out, and instead, the EU is introducing a new border management system that will affect all non-EU passport holders, including those from the UK following its departure from the EU in 2016.

The New Entry/Exit System (EES)

By the end of 2024, the familiar practice of getting passport stamps will be a thing of the past. The EU’s new Entry/Exit System (EES) is set to transform the border crossing experience across 29 EU countries. Initially planned for an earlier rollout, the implementation has been postponed until winter 2024.

The EES will be operational in countries including Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Spain and many others.

But what will the new system involve, you might ask?

Travellers will have their fingerprints and facial photographs taken at entry points, allowing authorities to monitor their time spent in the EU more effectively.

Anticipated Challenges with EES Implementation

The Foreign Office has cautioned British travellers that the initial introduction of the EES may lead to longer wait times at border crossings. A statement on the UK government website reads: "From November 2024, you'll get your fingerprints and photo taken when entering the Schengen area.

"You'll get either your fingerprints or photo taken when you leave. You will not get a stamp in your passport.

"Queues at borders may be longer when these changes begin. If you enter the Schengen area through Dover, Eurotunnel at Folkestone or St Pancras International, your fingerprints and photo will be taken before you leave the UK."

The EES will also reinforce the Schengen 90/180-Day Rule, which allows non-EU nationals to stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Exceeding this limit could result in penalties for overstaying without a visa.

EU Home Affairs Commissioner Ylva Johansson confirmed the EES will be implemented across the 29 member states starting November 10th 2024. However, some reports indicate potential delays or partial implementation, as the system may not be fully ready in all member states.

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A spokesperson for the European Commission stated: “Member States are working hard towards the implementation of the Entry/Exit System to ensure that it starts operation on time.

"The Commission is in close contact with all member states to support them to prepare for the entry into operation, as well as with the European Union Agency for the Operational Management of Large-Scale IT Systems in the Area of Freedom, Security and Justice.”